Coming this August to Central New York, the second annual Tour the Towpath bicycle ride returns with a 36-mile supported recreational bike ride which takes cyclists from DeWitt to Rome along the Old Erie Canal Towpath Trail in the Erie Canal State Historic Park. The two day, weekend ride includes overnight camping, swimming and live music in Canastota. There is also an abbreviated one day ride option (Sunday only). Last year over 50 people participated in this event. Cost to participate is $30 for adults and $15 for children.
This adventure-style ride is about more than just getting from point A to point B. All riders will be given a passport with a map and guidebook highlighting things to see and do along the way. Participants will enjoy exploring communities, free entry to museums, browsing the shops and tasting the offerings of local restaurants as they cycle along what has come to be known as the “most famous canal in history.” Riders who go the extra mile to find historic checkpoints in the towns and villages will be entered to win prizes. Some communities will host hospitality and water stations along the route.
The ride will end at Rome’s Canalfest in Bellamy Harbor Park where riders are welcome to participate in the ongoing festivities including fireworks at the end of the night. For an additional fee, cyclists can ride a narrated cruise boat from Bellamy Harbor through Lock 21 and back. The boat will include refreshments, a cash bar, prizes and celebratory activities.
The two-day ride starts at 10 a.m. on Aug. 6 in DeWitt. Free camping accommodations are provided on West Hickory Street in the Village of Canastota, or riders can make reservations at the Canastota Days Inn. The two-day riders will continue from Canastota to Rome on Aug. 7. A vehicle is available to carry camping gear between destinations. The one-day option starts at 8 a.m. on Sunday Aug. 7 in DeWitt. All riders must arrange their own transportation to and from the event.
Updates about the event and photos of last year’s event can be found at facebook.com/OldErieCanal.
