200th Anniversary Erie Canal Through- Paddle

Advice
,
#1

Title says it all. This year makes the 200th Anniversary of the Erie canals completion in 1825. As many may know, upstate NY wouldnt be what it is without it. Being from a small town influenced by the canals history and and avid paddler I wanted to do something for it. In 5 weeks, I plan on beginning my 2 week adventure across the entire length of the canal (363- miles) from Tonawanda Harbor to Waterford, where it meets with the Hudson). With me is my trusted Prijon Seayak 2 kayak in pursuit of history and a challenge. If possible I would like this known about such that I could obtain support and encouragement from those interested.

I can only find 2 trip reports from the past 25 years of this being done (Through paddle of the canal) Now, I’m well aware many others have done it, I want to document my trip as I go along, the towns I see, the people I talk to, the support and energy from encouraging people. I think I offer a particular perspective to what I could find on my adventure. This will be a challenge, no question, pulling 25+ mile days and camping at portages/ lock systems.

I seek engagement with anyone who may find my desire for this adventure interesting. Now, here lies my curiosity… is any seasoned kayaker of upstate NY interested in pairing up with me to do this? Feel free to chime in on how boring it will be and how silly this idea is. Regardless, it will happen whether its solo or with another seasoned paddler. Cheers

1000003078
10000030781920Ă—2560 694 KB

4 Likes
#2

Good idea. We used to paddle up the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Maryland next to the upper Potomac River.

You are going to have to negotiate locks. You are going to need to re-supply. 363 miles in 14 days means you need to average 26 miles a day. There may be lay over days due to bad weather. It may take longer than 14 days. Good luck.

#3

I was checking out the map for that.
https://nycanalmap.com/

#4

I’m planning 3 resupply points provided by my sister + crew. Also the 14 day window is tenative, it’s more about the completion of the journey than it is the time it takes. With Lake Ontario as my paddle playground, I’ve been working my way up on daily distant paddles.

As per negotiating the locks, the 5 lock masters I’ve spoke with thust far have all welcomed my ability to pitch a tent. But it is my plan to knows within the next 2 week all planned camp locations.

Part of me wants to engage my town and “track” my progress. We’ll see what happens on the upcoming weeks.

#5

Forgot to say I like your choice of kayak.