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WATERFORD, N.Y. (WNYT) – From history to adventure, the Erie Canal has long been a symbol of New York’s heritage – and this time, I decided to experience it in a whole new way: by kayak.
In the latest edition of Tamara Tries, I took on the challenge of paddling one of the state’s most scenic and historic waterways and discovered that the canal offers more than just a trip through history.
“We’re standing at the confluence of the Hudson and the Mohawk rivers on the Erie Canal,” said Jackie Schillinger, spokesperson for the New York State Canal Corporation. “From here, you can go anywhere in the world – from New York City to Montreal, to Canada.”
Stretching hundreds of miles, the canal connects New York City to Canada through the Champlain Canalway Trail and extends west from Albany to Buffalo along the historic Erie Canalway.
For Donna Larkin, owner of Upstate Kayak Rentals, each trip down the canal brings something new.
“It never gets boring,” she said. “The wildlife, the peacefulness, the tranquility – connecting with nature.”
I admit, I was very nervous at first —and I can’t swim —so kayaking quickly turned into a journey of confidence and connection. Guided by Larkin’s tips, I learned how to navigate the locks safely and share the water with boaters.
“We kayak close to the shorelines and out of the middle of the boating channels,” Larkin explained. “It’s a very safe way to explore our waterways.”
After completing my adventure, I couldn’t help but celebrate the journey with amazing people at the access port in Waterford. What started as a personal challenge turned into an unforgettable memory- and a reminder that adventure and history often flow side by side along the Erie Canal.
For Related Stories: kayaking Upstate Kayak Rentals New York State Canal Corporation Erie Canal Tamara Tries