The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
Cyclists invited to Tour the Towpath
WAMPSVILLE, N.Y. » Explore Erie Canal by bike on Sept. 15-16 at the fourth annual Tour the Towpath event.
Tour the Towpath is a 36-mile supported, off-road recreational bike ride along the Towpath trail within the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park from DeWitt to Rome. There are several organized and spontaneous things to discover along the way including charming canal-side communities.
Tour the Towpath is a family-friendly event and open to cyclists of all abilities. In the past, riders have ranged in ages from4 to 87. The Old Erie Canal Towpathtrail is off-road, mostly stone dust, and flat. Participants have two full days to explore the park and all the area has to offer. Special activities during the event include a scavenger hunt along the route.
Riders will receive a map and guide to the attractions, museums, restaurants, shops, and historic sites they can explore in the communities between DeWitt and Rome. All participants are invited to an after-ride celebration at Copper City Brewery in Rome with live music, food trucks, and specials on beverages for those over 21.
“What makes this event so great is it’s an organized event but you pick what you see along the way,” says Ken Hammond, owner of InStride Sports, and event organizer. “Participants literally ride on the scenic towpath that mules once used to pull the canal boats. You’ll also ride along historic working aqueducts and by sunken canal boats all while having the opportunity stop into the many quaint canal side communities along the way for craft beers, great local restaurants, live music, unique historic sites, and fresh experiences.”
Participants will overnight in the canal-side community of Canastota with music and entertainment scheduled. Overnight riders may choose to either camp at the event’s designated campsite area (included with registration), or purchase a room from a hotel in the village at an extra cost. Tour the Towpath also offers a one day ride option for those looking for a shorter experience.
The cost for Tour the Towpath is $40 for adults and $18 for kids for the two day ride or $35 for adults and $15 for kids for the one day ride. Day of registration is available at an increased price. Shuttle transportation is available for an additional cost; reserve space on shuttle during registration. Registration includes a detailed map and guide, T-shirt, luggage transport, bike support, and camping accommodations. Several museums and attractions along the trail also offer free entry to Tour the Towpath riders.
To register or for more information visit www. TourtheTowpath.com