Bird Island Pier

The Erie Canalway Trail offers a captivating journey through history and nature, perfect for a long jog. You'll follow historic canal towpaths and old railway lines, with the surface alternating between smooth asphalt and well-packed crushed stone. Expect picturesque canal vistas, expansive wetlands, and mature forests, with highlights like the Shoreline Trail providing scenic views of Lake Erie and the Bird Island Pier.

This 11.5-mile (18.6 km) route, with a mere 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult primarily due to its length, taking about 1 hour and 54 minutes. It's an excellent option for those seeking a sustained, relatively flat effort rather than steep climbs. Access points are plentiful, and while the trail is open year-round, spring and fall provide the most comfortable conditions for running.

Tracing the route of the historic Erie Canal, an engineering marvel completed in 1825, this trail is part of the larger 360-mile Empire State Trail. It offers a unique blend of recreational activity and historical immersion, connecting charming canal towns and showcasing engineering feats like locks and lift bridges. This section provides a great taste of the trail's diverse character.