Frequently Asked Questions 

Where does Tour the Towpath 2018 Start and End?
Tour the Towpath 2018 starts at the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park Trailhead in DeWitt, and ends in Rome at the Rome Sports Hall of Fame. All riders are invited to continue (by bike or car) into Rome for an after party at Copper City Brewing Company once they have completed Tour the Towpath. 

What are the ride options?

Riders may choose to to the ride over one or two days. Two day riders will start in DeWitt in Saturday and ride to Canastota, where they will camp or lodge overnight. Then on Sunday two day riders will continue riding from Canastota to Rome. Participants choosing to do the one day option will start in Canastota on Sunday morning and end in Rome on Sunday afternoon (they will complete half of the total trail distance). 

What is the mileage between key points?

  • DeWitt to Rome: 36 miles
  • Canastota to DeWitt (Old Erie Canal State Historic Park) to Canastota: 17 miles
  • Canastota to Rome: 19 miles

Do I need to bring anything?

  • Water
  • Helmet
  • Snacks
  • Cell Phone and Charger
  • Cash
  • Sunscreen
  • Camping Gear if you are camping

If I’m camping, do I have to carry all of my gear with me?
No! You can drop off your gear at registration and it will be transported to the camping location. On day two, you can drop it off again and it will be waiting for you at your final location. Do plan to carry things you will need along the ride, for example water, cell phone, wallet, in a small backpack or saddlebag.

What happens if I have issues during the ride?

Tour the Towpath is a supported ride, meaning that someone will always be on call to help if you have an issue. Bicycle Mechanics from a local bike shop will accompany the group and are available to help with minor mechanical bicycle issues that might occur. If you have a major mechanical problem or feel that you cannot complete the ride for another reason, event support staff will be on-hand to pick you up and bring you to your car or hotel.

What do i get if I do the ride?
All riders receive the 2018 Tour the Towpath t-shirt (not guaranteed for day-of registrants), and a Ride Guide with maps and important information about the ride. Many museums and attractions along the trail offer free entry to Tour the Towpath riders. 

Am I guaranteed to get a T-Shirt?
Only pre-registered riders are guaranteed to receive a t-shirt. Sign up early to make sure you get the size you want.