Be a part of the Erie Canalway Challenge
Let the countdown begin! As of April 21, we’re only 10 days away from the start of the 2026 Canalway Challenge on May 1! Read on for the top 10 things you need to know about the challenge before it starts.
1. Choose from 1st Mile, 15-, 90-, 180- or 360-mile goals. Choose the mileage goal within your ability and skill level while challenging yourself to do more and go farther.
2. Find the way that works for you. Walk, run, cycle, paddle, roll, scooter, roller skate or skateboard. All human-powered miles count.
3. Log miles on any of New York’s canals and Canalway Trails. Explore the Erie, Cayuga-Seneca, Champlain and Oswego canals as you work toward your goal.
4. Go at your own pace, and on your own time. You can finish in a weekend or take several months. The 2026 Canalway Challenge closes at the end of October.
5. Attend events to help you reach your goal. Races, fun runs, paddling events and cycling and walking tours all count toward your goal. Find Canalway Challenge events on the Ideas for Logging Miles page.
6. Experience America 250 while you complete your challenge. Check out our suite of new itineraries for inspiration on how to have Revolutionary Experiences while you log miles.
Editor Courtney signs up for a new challenge every year!
7. Rack up the regions. To become a 360-Miler you must complete each region of the canal or trail, whether all at once or in multiple trips. For all other mileages, you can repeat the same section of canal or trail as many times as you like. However, it is far more fun to explore new places!
8. Receive a sticker, magnet and pennant when you finish. We’ll send you a finisher kit in the mail to commemorate your experience. You earned it!
9. Get inspired! Find best-bet day trips, multi-day itineraries, kid-friendly rides, kayak rentals and more on our website.
10. The Canalway Challenge is completely free. There’s no cost to sign up or to receive your finisher kit… and the rewards for participating are all yours!
