Erie Canalway Trail

Amsterdam to Schenectady

17 miles
6 to 9 hours
1 hour, 30 minutes to 2 hours
Dog-friendly
Paved

Trail Overview

This 17-mile Empire State Trail section is a paved off-road trail welcoming bicyclists and walkers of all abilities. The section starts at a trailhead parking area in South Amsterdam, at the intersection of Bridge St and Erie St (for trail users wanting to visit downtown Amsterdam, a beautiful bike-pedestrian gateway bridge across the Mohawk provides access to the City). The canalway trail heads east, passing through woodlands, farmlands, wetlands, and river views. This section is part of the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail. The off-road trail ends in the City of Schenectady, at the intersection of Route 5 and Washington Ave (the route east of this point through the city is designated on local streets). There are many access points to the trail, including parking areas in Pattersonville, municipal parks, and at Canal Locks E-10 and E-8. Visitor services are available in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Schenectady.

Cycling Directions

Cue sheets provide step by step navigation instructions for cycling the trail in both directions.

EC25-EC26_West-East Download EC26-EC25_East-West Download

Upcoming Trail Weather

Trail Elevation

Gallery

The Trail Near Pattersonville NY

Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

Amsterdam Gateway Bridge

At the Amsterdam Gateway Bridge

City of Schenectady

Empire State Trail - Rotterdam

Fall Harvest on the EST

Trail East of Pattersonville

Trail Tunnel Under CSX Tracks

The Trail Near Pattersonville NY

Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

Amsterdam Gateway Bridge

At the Amsterdam Gateway Bridge

City of Schenectady

Empire State Trail - Rotterdam

Fall Harvest on the EST

Trail East of Pattersonville

Trail Tunnel Under CSX Tracks

B&B & Country Inns & Farm Stays

Mariaville Lake Bed & Breakfast

Why not stay at the lake? 5 guestroom upstate New York Inn. Minutes from I-88 and I-90 and near Schenectady, Albany and Saratoga. Mariaville Lake is just a 2½ hour drive from New York City.
Your innkeepers provide warm, attentive hospitality, suggestions for the area, and a full candlelight breakfast. Local ingredients are used, and the coffee is yummy and fair trade. Vegan or gluten free is no problem and Wi-Fi is available and free.

176 Batter St, Pattersonville, NY 12137

Hotels/Motels & Resorts

Belvedere Inn

We invite you to stay at the Belvedere Inn, Schenectady’s only boutique inn. Conveniently located just three miles from downtown Schenectady, Proctors Theatre, Union College and General Electric. Albany International Airport is just a short 15 minute drive. Relax and recharge in one of our spacious guest rooms, known for comfort, heartfelt hospitality and attention to detail.

In addition to our excellent accommodations and service, take advantage of our business center which will help you complete your work while on the road. Located in our open, spacious lobby, our business center offers you the ability to print, copy and fax at no additional cost. Designated meeting rooms for small or large groups are available at Mallozzis Banquet House, a few steps away.

Visit Site
1926 Curry Rd, Schenectady, NY 12303
(518) 630-4020

Super 8 Amsterdam

Located off I-90 in The Gateway to Adirondack State Park, we offer 68 comfortable guest rooms, a deluxe continental breakfast and large vehicle parking, with easy access to Saratoga Racetrack and the Great Sacandaga Lake.

Visit Site
5502 State Hwy 30 South, Amsterdam, NY 12010
(518) 843-5888