Maple Traditions

The Maple Traditions Scenic Byway guides travelers through peaceful rural communities where they will see people continuing the heritage and traditions of previous generations. The route highlights the simple traditions of people living close to the land, while providing access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Beginning in Lowville, the 80 mile route takes travelers past farmlands, woodlands, the American Maple Museum in Croghan, and ends in the “Maple City” of Ogdensburg at the foot of the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge to Canada. Along the way, travelers visit family-operated sugar bush operations where maple syrup is produced using wood-stoked fires and horse-drawn wagons; observe Amish farmers working their fields; and are tempted by a variety of locally crafted, traditions-based products such as furniture, cheeses, meats, candles, baskets, and candies. An alternate loop through Canton brings travelers past the Traditional Arts in Upstate New York’s North Country Heritage Center, whose exhibits, archives, and local product gallery highlight and preserve the rich living heritage of customs and folk arts from across the entire North Country region. Maple Traditions Scenic Byway offers numerous opportunities to enjoy the undeveloped rural landscape: including bird watching, paddling quiet waterways, hiking woodland trails, and geo-caching.