Travel the Mohawk Towpath National Scenic Byway
The Mohawk Towpath National Scenic Byway is a 26-mile route winding through upstate New York. Stretching from Waterford to Schenectady, the byway traces the gentle bends of the Mohawk River, the Erie Canal, and the original mule-towed path (hence “Towpath”) that propelled the U.S. westward.
History Along the Byway
Most of the landscape along the Towpath still looks as it did in the early 19th century. Historic districts line the route, with buildings dating back centuries. In Waterford, structures from as early as 1770 remain, while in Schenectady’s Stockade District, homes dating from 1670 stand proudly along the river.
The Town of Halfmoon was purchased directly from the Mohawk Tribe in 1667, adding another layer of cultural heritage. The Cresent-Church Hill Historic District showcases beautiful homes overlooking the Mohawk River that have adorned the bank for over 200 years.
Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Adventures
Running alongside the Mohawk River, Erie Canal, and the New York Barge Canal, the byway offers travelers stunning water views and abundant outdoor recreation. Cycling, hiking, and boating are popular activities, with trails and waterways inviting visitors to immerse themselves.
Two must-see stops include the Waterford Flight of Locks and Cahoes Falls. One of the byway’s most fascinating engineering landmarks is the Waterford Flight of Locks– a must-see for any visitor. This impressive staircase of five interconnected locks (Locks 2–6) lifts boats a remarkable 169 feet from the Hudson River up to the level of the Mohawk River. Visitors can watch boats move through the locks in sequence, walk the canal-side pathways, and take in views of the Mohawk Valley as the water rises and falls through each chamber. Another scenic stop is the overlook above Cohoes Falls, where visitors can appreciate the power of the Mohawk River and understand why such an ambitious lock system was needed here. Together, these viewpoints highlight the blend of natural and man-made beauty that defines the byway.
A Journey Through Time and Nature
The Mohawk Towpath is a living story of America’s past, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into one unforgettable journey. As you travel the byway, each bend in the river reveals a new chapter—Native American homelands, early Dutch settlements, Revolutionary War routes, and the industrial boom sparked by the Erie Canal. The landscape becomes a timeline you can move through at your own pace, with museums, markers, and preserved neighborhoods every mile, offering a chance to connect with the roots of the nation’s growth.
Nature plays just as important a role in this experience. Towering cottonwoods, rolling farmland, and peaceful canal waters create an ever-changing backdrop, while wildlife—from blue herons to bald eagles—can often be spotted gliding above the river. The quiet trails and towpaths invite visitors to slow down, offering moments of reflection in a place where history feels both distant and incredibly close.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re exploring quiet canal towns, admiring the views from river overlooks, or following the same routes early settlers traveled, the Mohawk Towpath National Scenic Byway invites you to slow down and savor the experience. With charming communities, walkable historic districts, and access to nature at every turn, the byway makes for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway in upstate New York.