Champlain Canal
| Champlain Canal Facts | ||
 A large yacht entering a lock. | ||
| Length: | 60 Miles | |
| Depth: | 12 Feet | |
| Bridge Clearance: | 17 Feet | |
| Elevation Change: | 141 Feet | |
| Number of Locks: | 11 Locks | |
| Speed Limit: | 10 MPH (man-made sections) | |
| Canal Towns | Waterford Mechanicville Schuylerville Fort Edward Whitehall | |
| ||
The Champlain Canal follows the traditional Native American route that connects the Hudson River to Lake Champlain and eventually the Saint Lawrence Seaway. Officially beginning at Waterford where the Erie Canal departs from the Hudson River, the 60 mile long Champlain Canal continues upstream along the Hudson River to Fort Edward. At Fort Edward, the canal branches away from the Hudson River towards Whitehall. Whitehall lies at the base of Lake Champlain, where boaters can continue to travel northwards enjoying the picturesque beauty of Lake Champlain. For the transient boater, one can continue to travel northward to Montreal, Canada via the Chambly Canal and the Saint Lawrence Seaway.
The modern day canal is part of New York State Canal System and the Lakes to Locks Passage in honor of the route's importance to the freedom of the United States. Along this route there are many historic places to visit, many of which were key towns in independence of our the United States.
The Hudson River portion of the Champlain Canal is wide and lined with houses. As one approaches Fort Edward and the man-made portion of the canal, the houses fade and scenic fields line the canal. Cows walk right up to the canal for water. The 60 miles of canal really have something for everyone; check out each town to see what you will like.
Champlain Canal History
- Main article: Old Champlain Canal
The waterway route connecting New York City with Montreal via the Hudson River, Wood Creek, Lake Champlain and the Richelieu River has played a critical role in the history of New York and the United States. Many famous battles have taken place along this route including Native American conflicts and battles of the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War and War of 1812.
On April 15, 1817, to enhance trade in the area and export precious raw materials out of the Champlain Valley, a bill was passed by New York Legislators which appropriated funds and created a committee to build a navigable waterway connecting the Lower Hudson River with Lake Champlain (as well as the Lower Hudson River with Lake Erie...the Erie Canal). Six years later the Champlain Canal was officially opened on September 10, 1823 simultaneously with the stretch of Erie Canal from Albany to Rochester. The 64 mile waterway between Whitehall and Waterford consisted of 46.5 miles of artificial channel and 17.5 miles improved river.
The canal was enlarged many times and the current Champlain Canal primarily uses the Hudson River from Waterford to Fort Edward and parallels the original canal from Fort Edward to Whitehall at the foot of Lake Champlain. There are numerous remains of the former canals and feeders, primarily in Waterford (Now used a a feeder for Lock E2) and Glens Falls. The Glens Falls feeder was a navigable canal that also supplied water to the Champlain Canal to prevent low water levels in times of drought; today this feeder canal and the remains of its locks are easily viewable by taking a walk or bike ride on the old tow path. There are efforts underway to further restore this historic waterway.
Champlain Canal Guide
Beginning in Waterford, the northbound trip along the Champlain Canal to Whitehall is a day trip for fast movers and three to four days (or more!) of exploration for others.
This historic route passes from the largely settled Hudson River near Albany north through the small quaint towns of Mechanicville, Schuylerville, and Fort Edward before branching away from the Hudson River into an artificial channel. Here the route leaves civilization and is lined by farm fields and trees as it continues north entering the lower Champlain Valley with the Adirondack Mountains visible to the east and Green Mountains to the west.
Waterford
Three miles north of the Troy Federal Lock and Dam and about 10 miles north of Albany sits the quaint village of Waterford. Here lies the beginning of both the modern Champlain and Erie Canals. Before beginning on your Champlain Canal adventure, however, it is worth while to stop at the Waterford Visitor Center, be it a night or just a few hours.
Located at the junction between the Hudson River and the Erie Canal, it marks the official beginning of both the Erie Canal and Champlain Canal and is passed by transient boaters traveling in all directions. Waterford has a rich canal history, free public docks, and all the essential supplies within walking distance of the town wall. Attractions include restaurants, groceries, a public library, post office, laundry facilities, the Old Champlain Canal walking path and Peebles Island State Park. The visitor center offers internet access, bathrooms and showers, while the public docks provide free power and water.
Waterford hosts the annual Tugboat Roundup in the fall and is the home of the Flight of Locks (Lock E2-Lock E6). Also while in Waterford, one can experience many different types of canal boats as it is the home of many tugboats and other working canal boats, as well as sees cruisers of all types transiting the canals for recreation, as well as passing through on the way north/south for the season.
The Visitor Center is located immediately west of the Hudson River, adjacent to the large green sign pointing boaters towards the Champlain and Erie Canals. The Visitor Center has become VERY popular in recent years and fills quickly, so boaters should always be prepared. There is also limited docking space across the river on the Lock E2 approach wall, though there are no services available there. The floating docks at Waterford provide free electric, water and a pump-out station located on the western floating dock adjacent to the walkway ramp. Inside the Visitor Center are restrooms, showers, and computers. All boaters should register their boat here when arriving.
| Waterford | |
 A packed wall during an annual Tugboat Roundup in Waterford. | |
| Docking | Free for 2 days |
| Services | Power Water Restrooms Showers Computers |
Waterford is now known for the Waterford Flight of Locks, five giant locks in series that carry the Erie Canal from the Hudson River up over the 75 foot Cohoes Falls and other smaller falls and dams. However, historically Waterford was only known for the Champlain Canal as the previous alignments of the Erie Canal were further south of Waterford in Cohoes.
Adjacent to the Visitor Center and Lock E2 are the former Sidecut Locks, three hand-laid stone locks which allowed boats to transverse directly from the Hudson River into the Champlain Canal, bypassing the heavily congested alternate route of entering the Erie Canal at Albany and then the Champlain Canal in Cohoes. These locks no longer are used directly, but currently act as an overflow for the Old Champlain Canal. Similarly the Old Champlain Canal is no longer navigable by powered craft, but is used to control water levels between Lock E2 and Lock E3 on the modern Erie Canal.
Across the channel from the Visitor Center is Peebles Island State Park, an island formed by the rapids below Cohoes Falls. This unsuspecting island has a rich history, including hosting troops, industrial sites and more. The island is now a criss-crossed by trails and the Peebles Island Resource Center. The center is support hub for other historical parks and is home to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor offices. Also on site is shelter for gatherings including grills. Another historic site in southern Waterford is the Waterford Museum. This museum has gathered items items from over 200 years, many canal related. A scenic way to get to the museum is to follow the Old Champlain Canalway Trail south from Lock E2. There is a footbridge over the canal at the museum for easy access.
Heading east back to the Hudson River and turning left (north) begins your Champlain Canal journey, but before getting going too far it may be worth a stop for groceries. On the east side of the Hudson River 1000 feet north of Erie/Champlain Canal junction sign is a floating dock, in season, which provides access to a Price Chopper (a large grocery store) free of charge. This easy access to food and other provisions is a good place to stock up on canned and other heavy long term supplies without having to carry anything across town.
Lock C1
| Lock C1 | |
 Lock C1 protective wall disguised as a sign. | |
| Phone | (518) 237-8566 |
| Lift | 14.3 |
Traveling north again it is about 3 miles to reach Lock C1. Lock C1 is located on the western side of the river in an artificial cut. This lock is rather scenic given the urban surroundings, and offers space for docking if the Waterford Visitor Center is full or if you prefer a quieter environment. On the upper side of the lock is a local (free) boat launch and floating dock.
Also here is a creative way to mask a protective wall, on the upper side of the lock there is Lock - 1, Champlain Canal. At first is looks like landmark sign, but in fact it is a concrete wall used to protect the lock during times of flooding. Many of the locks across the state have these, but this lock was able to blend it in very well.
Approximately one-half mile north of Lock C1 is Lock 1 Marina, a small 51 slip marina with nearly every amenity. They charge $2/foot (last verified: 2009) for overnight docking. They can be contacted at 518-238-1321.
Lock C2
| Lock C2 | |
| Phone | (518) 644-4961 |
| Lift | 18.5 |
From Lock C1 (or Lock 1 Marina) to Lock C2 is approximately 4 miles with houses lining the river. When approaching Lock C2, be sure be mindful of your location and currents. This area is shallow outside the channel and while waiting for the lock to open it is easy to drift unknowingly into danger. This lock is unique in that is is not along side the bank of the river. Rather the lock is located on a small island with a spillway on the east side and hydroelectric power station on the west side. If an extended delay is expected it is best to tie up at the approach wall. Do not hold onto navigational bouys, they are not meant to handle the extra load of a vessel and can easily drift off station, possibly leading you and/or other boaters to run aground.
Mechanicville
| Mechanicville | |
 The Mechanicville terminal wall at the outskirts of the city. | |
| Docking | Free for 2 days |
| Services | Power Water pump-out |
Once through Lock C2, being mindful again of the channel location, it is approximately two miles to the Mechanicville Terminal Wall. Mechanicville is a small city along the Hudson River and offers many resources for passing boaters. The wall lies outside the channel and deep draft boats should prefer the northern end of the wall, away from a local stream outlet. A pump station is located at the north end of the wall which should not be blocked.
Mechanicville like many of the cities across New York was developed because of the success of the canal system. Mechanicville offers any boater many reasons to stop. Its large free wall with power (15/20 amp), water, and trash is enough, but the city offers much more. A short walk brings you to shopping centers with stores to meet any demand (except perhaps specialized marine supplies), restaurants, a movie theater, library and more. Most places are a short-to-medium walk, but a bike may be preferred to access the Price Chopper (grocery store) and library.
Lock C3
The the north of and within sight of the Mechaincville Terminal Wall is Lock C3. Located on the eastern side of the Hudson River, with an adjacent dam and hydroelectric station. This lock should be contacted if you have hight clearance issues as the local power station is capable of lower the pool between Lock C3 and Lock C4 to clear the low railroad bridge.
After leaving Lock C3, its a straight shot to Lock C4, but boats must pass under a low bridge. There are markings on the bridge support showing the air draft, but boaters with questionable clearance should approach slowly, preferably with a person in direct view of the top of the boat. Once under the bridge, Lock C4 is clearly visible. A local stream enters just south of the lock to the east while the main river flows to the west.
Lock C4
Located in an artificial channel east of the main river, Lock C4 is surprisingly secluded. Lock C4 makes a nice stop for those who appreciate a scenic location. This is a local park and makes a nice place to stop for for a break if you want to be left alone. There are picnic tables located on site with grills.
Upon leaving Lock C4, the first extended artificial channel is encountered. Be aware of your speed (10 MPH max!) and wake, especially in the proximity of other vessels. For vessels traveling in the same direction, it is usually best to allow space between boats to allow wakes to subside. As the channel ends and the canal reenters the river, stay to the right and be mindful of channel markers. Downstream 1000 feet is a dam which should not be approached. Across the river here is Admiral's Marina, a local marina which can be contacted at 518-664-9093. Services are unknown. Traveling north from Lock C4 enters a very historic area.
Schuylerville
The city of Schuylerville is a historic little town on the Champlain Canal. General Philip Schuyler's house is located in town and many historic sites like the Saratoga Battlefield (and monument) are located nearby. Saratoga Springs with its horse racing, performances, spas and more is a 15 minute taxi ride to the west. This historic town is unique in that there are many interesting historic sites preserved throughout town: from an old Junction Lock to an aqueduct to battle fields and historic homes. Also there is the Hudson Crossing, a educational and recreation park.
On the west shore you will pass a sign commemorating the Saratoga Battlefield. There are no docks, but the hills beyond the sign were the location of an important battle of yesteryear. A few miles north of the sign is the village of Schuylerville, with many historic landmarks worth visiting. There are two places to access Schuylerville, the first is the Schuylerville Yacht Basin, a private marina a few blocks from downtown. The second option is using the approach walls at Lock C5 or floating docks at the Hudson Crossing educational and recreation park. These two locations are approximately one mile north of town and connected.
Lock C5
Lock C5 is located one mile north of Schuylerville, adjacent to Hudson Crossing Park, and is at the southern end of an artificial channel. The lock, like the Schuylerville area, has many interesting things to see. On site is a lock connected the modern day canal to the former Champlain Canal, which follows an inland route to Schuylerville. When the modern Champlain Canal was built, industry was still using the former canal and a junction lock was built so that barges could serve the inner Schuylerville community. This lock can be seen on the north west side of the current lock. From here you can follow the old canal towpath trail south to Schuylerville.
Leaving Lock C5 northbound, the canal follows an artificial channel for approximately 0.9 miles, where the channel enters the river directly adjacent to a dam. Severe caution should be displayed here as the currents could carry a vessel quickly into trouble. From here is is about three easy miles to Lock C6, which is located in an artificial channel.
Lock C6
Lock C6 is away from the main channel and currents. This makes another scenic stop for lunch or longer. Upon leaving the lock, boats should proceed at no wake speed until clearing the cement walls, as the walls on both sides bounce wakes back and forth better than any wave pool at an amusement park. Southbound vessels should be especially concerned as wakes created at the beginning of the cement sided walls will catchup to the boat while in the chamber. It seems as if the wakes are perfectly timed to make for a very unpleasant line grabbing situation.
Upon leaving Lock C6 northbound, there is a 2.25 mile artificial channel before reentering the Hudson River. At approximately 1.9 miles, there is a blue guard gate, an unusual site along the Champlain Canal. The guard gate prevents the channel from flooding during periods of high water, it also is closed at the end of each season to for safety and to prevent debris and silt from entering the canal. From here it is about five miles to Fort Edward.
Fort Edward
| Fort Edward | |
 The Fort Edward terminal wall is located in the heart of the city. | |
| Docking | Free for 2 days |
| Services | Power Water Restrooms Showers (coin) |
Upon approaching Fort Edward, Lock C7 becomes visible on the eastern shore. Directly adjacent to the lock is a channel leading to the Fort Edward Yacht Basin and the large river is on the west (not navigable). Fort Edward is where travelers of yesteryear would depart the Hudson River and head through the woods to meet up with Wood Creek and eventually Lake Champlain. Its name comes from the fort that once protected this passageway during the development of country. Across the town there are many different historic sites to access (many have free docks).
The town terminal wall (called Fort Edward Yacht Basin) wall provides free docks with power (15/30 amp), water, bathrooms and (coin) showers. Boater's choosing to enter the channel to the Fort Edward Yacht Basin, should be mindful of channel markers and their depth. Particularly while passing under the bridge, there is an immediate turn across the channel that must be made. When approaching the basin wall, vessels should stay close to the wall as there are rocks in the center of the channel and close to the west shore. A short walk brings you downtown where there are shops and restaurants. Also located in town is a library and convenience stores. Roger's island is a welcoming center and recreated fort that is worth a visit. It can be reached by foot via the bridge adjacent to Stewart's or docking to its own floating dock (see Cruising Guide map).
Lock C7
Leaving the Fort Edward Yacht Basin takes one back along the same channel, again being mindful of depth and channel markers. If continuing through Lock C7, one should call before leaving to ensure that the lock will be ready when you arrive. While it is tempting to just 'turn the corner' around the lock, give the lock plenty of space, as you do not know if a vessel is exiting, or if the lock is dumping water creating strong currents and causing a loss of control.
Lock C7 is marks where the Champlain Canal parts ways with the Hudson River and travels in an largely artificial channel to Whitehall. Once on the high side of Lock C7, a Canal Corporation maintenance site is on the north shore. Proceed at no-wake speed until clearing the cement wall. After passing under the State Route 4 bridge, a floating dock comes into view on the north shore. This is another public dock (no services) provided by Fort Edward for access to historic sites and a nearby park. This makes a nice stop to stretch legs. Nearby is the old junction lock, which connected the current Champlain Canal with the old Champlain Canal when industry was still using the former canal in the first part of the 20th century.
Lock C8
Continuing on to Lock C8 is an uneventful two miles, beside the newly created dredging plant which processes the contaminated sediment removed from the Hudson River. This begins the very scenic and uneventful stretch of the Champlain Canal. Farms fields and woods line this stretch to Whitehall. Overnighting at Locks C8 to Lock C11 provide very quiet surroundings, much unlike any other stretch of canals, though they have no power, water or other services.
Lock C9
Lock C9 is a secluded lock which makes for a nice place to take a break. The northern side of the lock has a very nice wooden approach wall, which is rare along the canal system. Beyond that it is straightforward to Fort Ann.
Fort Ann
Fort Ann is located halfway between Fort Edward and Whitehall on the artificial section of the canal. There is a small floating dock located near the Clay Hill Rd. Bridge (C-23) that is available for walking into town (Note: currently no services). There is a Cumberland Farms (convenience store) just north of the dock by a block. There are three former canal locks located nearby the docks as well. This area is being redeveloped into a park and the locks have been cleared for easy viewing. This makes a worthwhile spot to stretch your legs and get basic supplies as the supplies in Whitehall are a long walk away.
There is no Lock 10 along the Champlain Canal (similarly there is no Lock E31 or Lock O4) as original blueprints created for the Champlain Canal were varied such that the lock was no longer necessary. Rather than renumber the blueprints, which were hand drawn, the lock number was simply omitted.
Lock C11
Lock C11 is another secluded lock and for those who appreciate the quiet, it is the final stop before Whitehall.
Whitehall
| Whitehall | |
 The Skene Manor overlooking Whitehall. It is available for tours and is only a 10 minute (uphill!) walk from the terminal wall. | |
| Docking | Free for 2 days |
| Services | Power Water |
Whitehall is at the junction between the Champlain Canal and Lake Champlain and is considered the birthplace of the American Navy. It is the last stop before the canal ends and the lake begins. It offers numerous marine facilities and an abundance of restaurants. This is the last time to dock for free until you reach some of the northern parts of Lake Champlain. For sailors, this is the time to put up your masts, and then wait until the lake opens wide enough to safely sail.
The Skenesborough Museum located right at the free terminal wall (power and water) is a must stop for anyone interested in the history of the formation of the United States, early travel, early wars and the building of the canals. There is much history to be learned as well as many artifacts to see; its a great way to spend a few hours. Also the Skeene Manor, located atop the hill across from the terminal wall, is now owned by a preservation group and does tours and meals. For more information, see the desk in the museum or lockmaster.
Lock C12
Lock C12 is located right in town, and is a unique lock along the system. The narrow channel here required a unique lock and dam be built.
Lake Champlain
After leaving Lock C12 and Whitehall, you are officially on Lake Champlain, though the lower third of the lake feels more like a river than a lake. Channel markers change shape here and should be observed closely until into the wider waters of the north.
Champlain Canal Photos
 Old Champlain Canal ... |
 Champlain Float Plan... |
 Lock C7 View.jpg |
 Old Champlain Canal.... |
 Lock C7 Choices.jpg |
 Lock C7 Side.jpg |
 Lock C7 Waterford Tu... |
 Old Champlain Canal ... |
 Lock C7 Maintenance ... |
Fort Edward Wall.jpg |
 Mechanicville view.j... |
Lock C1 - 1 .jpg |
 Old Champlain Canal ... |
 Champlain Canalway T... |
 Champlain Canalway T... |
 Lock C1 - 2 .jpg |
 Old Champlain Canal ... |
 Lock C1 Spillway.jpg |
 Lock C1 Downstream.j... |
 Lock C2 power plant.... |
 Lock C3 Bridge.jpg |
Free Docking, Boat Launches, and Marinas Along the Champlain Canal
Free Public Walls
- Waterford Visitor Center - Free power, water, bathrooms, access to library, post office, and more.
- Mechanicville Terminal Wall - Free power, water, access to town and more...
- Fort Edward Yacht Basin - Free power, water, restrooms, showers, access to town and more.
- Fort Edward Historic Docks - Access to town and and historical sites.
- Fort Ann Floating Dock - No services, short walk to small town.
- Whitehall Harbor - Free power, water, access to town and more...
Boat Launches
- Waterford, Small ramp at the end of the 1st street parking lot. Car-top and small vessels only.
- Lock C1, Nice paved ramp with floating dock on north side of lock.
- Schuylerville, Single lane paved ramp with floating docks. Access via Tow-Path Road (look for signs).
Marinas
- Lock 1 Marina, 461 Hudson River Rd., Waterford, NY 12188, (518) 238-1321
- Admiral's Marina, 288 N. Hudson Ave., Stillwater, NY 12170, (518) 664-9093
- Alcover Marina & Pub, 886 Route 4 South, Schuylerville, NY 12178, (518) 695-6079
- Schuylerville Yacht Basin, One Ferry St., Schuylerville, NY 12871, (518) 695-3193
- Whitehall Marina, 11 N. Main St., Whitehall, NY 12887, (518) 499-9700, fax: (518) 499-9701
- Liberty Eatery, 16 N. Williams Street, Whitehall, NY 12887, (518) 499-0301
- Lock 12 Marina, 82 N. Williams St., Whitehall, NY 12887, (518) 499-2049
| Champlain Canal | |
| Main Pages | Champlain Canal • Old Champlain Canal • Champlain Canal Locks |
| Towns | Waterford • Mechanicville • Schuylerville • Fort Edward • Fort Ann • Whitehall |
Comments
Please leave a comment, tell everyone about something that is missing above or even correct a typo. Remember you can add more information to most pages by using the edit tab. Feel free to email comments and pictures to mail@nycanals.com. Thanks and enjoy! -- Greg