Day 59 – August 1-Lockport, NY to Spencerport, NY– 56 Miles

Today’s ride had everything going for it, a dedicated recreational path, no hills, beautiful weather, beautiful scenery and a wealth of history.    We were not disappointed.  The entire day was spent traveling the Erie Canal Trail located on the towpath of the Erie Canal.  We started at the west end of the trail in Lockport.  Lockport is the site of an historic 5-step lock complex that would lift as well as lower canal boats traveling between the Hudson River and Lake Erie.  In its heyday the canal transported passengers and freight contributing significantly to the expansion and development of the nation.  Today its role is primarily recreational serving hikers and cyclist on the towpath, and leisure watercraft along the canal.

Traveling east from Lockport the canal traverses rural countryside and passes through historic villages that once served the canal.  We diverted from the towpath to visit a few of these communities.  Medina, Brockport, and Spencerport have developed portions of their economies to cater to travelers and recreational users of the canal. Along the towpath are historic displays that document the canal’s history and operation.  Spencerport has a very nice museum located along the south side of the canal.

Between the scenery and the easy riding, the miles passed quickly.  We had intended on traveling into Rochester or beyond.  Camping there was not an option and hotels were much more expensive so we opted to stay in Spencerport just 11 miles short of Rochester.

Tomorrow we continue on the Canal Trail to Palmyra before heading north toward Lake Ontario.