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Welcome to the NYS Canal System

We're the nation's largest state-run inland waterway system—operating since 1825 and including the Erie, Champlain, Oswego & Cayuga-Seneca canals—plus more than 150 miles of recreational trails.
An aerial view of a picturesque canal with several boats navigating through it. The canal is lined with lush green trees and a well-maintained grassy area on one side. A charming town with a mix of old and new houses is visible on the left, while a road runs parallel to the canal on the right. In the background, a bridge spans the canal, and beyond it, rolling hills covered in dense forest stretch into the distance. The scene is vibrant and serene, capturing a peaceful day in a scenic small town.
Boating
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Trails
A child, attentive and wearing gear for fall fishing, casts a fishing line under the watchful guidance of an adult. The backdrop shows autumn colors of the trees along the banks, reflecting in the water and setting a picturesque scene.
Fall Fishing
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Recreation
Counterweight being lowered by NYS Canal Corporation crews as they perform maintenance work on Lock E-2 in Waterford, including lifting an 11,000 pound valve into a tunnel that allows the flow of water into and out of the lock chamber. Several workers wearing yellow and orange protective gear are observing the counterweight being lowered by the crane.
Operations

Need help on the NYS Canal System?

For emergencies call 911. For non-emergencies call the Canal Corporation Incident Call Center 24/7, at 833-538-1042.

For business offices, contact us.

Spotlight

News, Events, and Updates
See all Events See all news
  • Event Festivals & Celebration Erie Canal 7/16/2024
    Taste of Wayne County
    Taste the flavor of local culinary businesses as you sample signature dishes, unique local food products, and craft beverages. Presale tickets include a Taste of Wayne County cup/glass and a commemorative spork. Tickets also available at the door.
  • Event Cycling Erie Canal Rochester Western New York 7/18/2024
    Beers, Bikes & Barges: Pittsford
    Experience Erie Canal history via a one-hour guided cycling tour followed by a pint in this statewide summer series along New York's Canals from the Erie Canal Museum. All miles count toward the Canalway Challenge. Registration required: $25 per ride.
  • Event Festivals & Celebration Erie Canal Rochester Western New York 7/19/2024
    Jam on the Canal: Food Truck Rodeo
    Enjoy an entertaining evening of local food trucks and live music at this inclusive event on the Erie Canal.

Get to know the Canals & Trails

Locking Through

Watching a lock operate is a fascinating experience. Whether in a boat or kayak on the water or standing at a Canal wall railing, you’ll see an “elevator for watercraft” at work. Lock Operators use electric controls to open and close the lock gates but it is gravity that makes the water flow in or out of the lock chamber using underwater values and tunnels.
A yacht gently enters the open gate of Lock E16 on the Erie Canal, under a bright sunny sky, surrounded by lush greenery.

Travel the Trails

Walking and cycling for fun with friends or wellness, we’ve got the place for you— the Canalway Trial along the Erie and Champlain canals. Step off the trail to visit local cafes, restaurants and shops in charming canal communities. Glimpses of wildlife, sleek boats and beautiful landscapes along the Canal waterways fill your eyes with wonder. The soft chirping of birds, rippling waters as kayaks glide by and the music of breezes through the lush green landscape are a symphony of sounds for the mind. The trails are for everyone—from those living the high energy lifestyle to those seeking the serenity of New York State’s natural beauty.  
Learn More
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Fall Fishing

Get a glimpse of the environment and wildlife you might encounter while fishing along the New York State Canals
Explore
Two people standing on rocks fishing along the bank of the canal. The sky appears to be right after sunset or right before sunrise. It appears to be windy with some slight waves in the water.

The Canal System

This video provides an overview of the places, events, and activities one may partake of in enjoying a NYS Canal experience. From boating in many forms and formats to fishing, walking or biking, historical perspectives, shopping and dining. The NYS Canal system affords ample opportunities for exploration, excitement, and recreation in a vast and multi-faceted waterside environment.
Learn more
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A beautiful scene over the Erie canal showing sun behind clouds reflecting on the calm waters below. The canal splits in two directions with the open water on one side and a lock on the other. Lush green trees and landscaping are on either side of the canal.

Real Property & Permits

Resources for individuals looking to buy, rent, sell or lease property, hold events or do construction along the New York State Canals System.
More About Real Property & Permits
The Genesse barge moving slowly along the canal. The water is tranquil and calm. The surrounding trees and greenery are full and bright green. There's a small mountain in the background.

Business & Grants

While more widely used for recreation, commercial traffic of heavy loads can travel economically and sustainably through Canal waterways. If you’re a business owner, find out about bid opportunities. Two types of Canal grants help communities fund projects large and small.
More About Business & Grants
he drydock at Waterford Section 2 maintenance facility of the NYS Canal Corporation is filled with water, and boats have been moved into the area. Workers prepare for draining the water later in the day, ensuring the vessels are secured in place.

Careers at the Canals

The New York State Canal Corporation relies upon engineers to ensure the safe, reliable operation of the 524 miles of the canal system within New York State. The canal system, with its rich history and vital economic impact on the communities it passes through, provides opportunities and unique professional challenges for engineers looking to advance their skillsets and knowledge base.
See all roles