Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor invites New Yorkers to trace history and track miles as part of the Canalway Challenge in 2024. The free program welcomes people of all ages and abilities to set a personal mileage goal and then walk, run, cycle, or paddle along the NYS Canal System to achieve it and receive recognition and rewards.
Participants can choose from a range of mileage options, including 15 miles, 90 miles, 180 miles, and 360 miles. A 1st Mile Challenge is open to people with mobility challenges.
“The Canalway Challenge combines fitness and fun and offers perfect motivation for people to get outside and explore the canal. Participants repeatedly tell us how much they discover while logging miles. From historic sites to beautiful scenery, regional specialty foods and beverages to charming canal communities, every mile delivers something special,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Now in its sixth year, Canalway Challenge participants from 30 U.S. states and four countries have logged 1.6 million miles along New York’s canals and Canalway Trail to date.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “As we prepare for the upcoming canal season, we are thrilled to continue our support of the Canalway Challenge. This innovative and popular program is designed to encourage people with and without disabilities to get outside on our Canals and the Canalway trail for exploration and recreation. We look forward to seeing visitors, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the water and the trail as they set out on fun-filled adventures along the state’s historic and vibrant Canal System.”
Registration is open to individuals, organizations, and teams. People can complete the Challenge in one big trip or many small ones from May 1 through the end of October. Upon completion, participants receive a mileage sticker, magnet and set of four commemorative postcards. Sign up at http://www.canalwaychallenge.com.
The NYS Canal System officially opens for the season on Friday, May 17, 2024.
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