Looking for tips to plan the perfect fall cycling trip?  Look no further!  As the temperatures cool down and the summer crowds dissipate, fall is one of the best times to explore the Erie Canalway Trail and witness the incredible colors of the changing leaves.

Where to Stay

As the weather starts to cool down and camping becomes less ideal, consider staying at a cozy, Bike Friendly New York certified bed and breakfast like Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast in Herkimer, NY.  The Bike Friendly New York program helps connect long-distance travelers with businesses along the Erie Canalway Trail, ensuring you’ll have a comfortable stay and secure place to store your bike overnight.  Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast is a certified accommodation that provides on-site bike-cleaning supplies and maintenance services.  Located two miles from the trail, Grand Colonial is at the eastern edge of Section 3 and the western edge of Section 4, making it the perfect basecamp while cycling either or both Sections.

Grand Colonial is a Colonial-style house which dates to the 1890s.  The accommodation has four guest rooms, each one featuring luxurious decor, premium bedding, private en suite bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi and cable TV.  If you’re looking for an extra special experience, be sure to book the Kingsland Room, complete with a newly remodeled private bath that includes a jet tub.  Start your day off right with a delicious, made-to-order homemade breakfast before embarking on your next adventure.

Book your stay directly at grand-colonial.com or call 315-982-5004 to enjoy exclusive benefits, including a best-rate guarantee, no pre-payment required, return guest discount, and free cancellation if your plans change.

What to Do

This time of year is an excellent opportunity to explore the beautiful fall offerings in the communities surrounding the Canalway.  There are plenty of attractions to discover, including eerie events and local festivals celebrating the fall harvest.  The autumn foliage peaks in September and October, showcasing a stunning array of colors across the Canalway’s lush canopies.  For precise timing, be sure to check the fall Foliage Report from I Love NY.

Our Suggestion: View Fall Foliage in Little Falls, NY
Little Falls boasts a unique blend of multi-faceted, multi-cultured, and walkable spaces filled with art galleries, one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants, coffee shops, year-round events, and festivals.  The city’s well-preserved historic architecture and main street are a sight to behold and add to its allure.  Little Falls is also one of the best places to take in the fall foliage, with tree-lined hills and cliffs surrounding the town.

Our Suggestion: Haunted Ghost Tour of the 1834 Jail in Herkimer, NY
This exciting event is happening on Saturday October 28, 2023.  Guides will offer tours under the full moon from 7 PM to 11 PM, with tours starting every 15 minutes.  You won’t want to miss the chance to hear the results of a recent ghost hunt of the jail and séance within the cells by a team of paranormal investigators and mediums.  You might even meet some spirits along the way.  The event is called “Bernadette Rice within the Veil,” and tickets are only $20.  To make your reservations, you can call 315-867-5036 or email [email protected].  It will be a spooky and fascinating experience you won’t forget!

Planning Your Trip

Many resources are out there to help you make the most out of your fall adventure.  The Empire State Trail website and Parks & Trails New York’s cycletheeriecanal.com site will show you how to link to the Canalway Trail by bicycle.

Getting There

Whether you’ve got a whole week to dedicate or just a day, a one-way trip on the trail can easily be accommodated using Amtrak’s bike service – it’s now possible to use the train to shuttle you and your bike across the state.  Reservations are required to carry your bike on the train.

If you prefer to drive, take the New York State Thruway (I-90) to your destination (Herkimer is Exit 31, Little Falls is Exit 29A).  If you want to keep a car with you throughout the trip, consider traveling in a group with a rotating driver.  The driver can park the car at the day’s final destination and then return to the group on the trail.