On Tuesday October 14, the Seneca Chief, a replica canal boat, will make its way from Amsterdam to Mohawk Harbor in Schenectady as part of its journey commemorating the original voyage of Governor Dewitt Clinton when the Erie Canal was opened in 1825.

The Northern New York Paddlers have been asked to escort the Seneca Chief from Lock 9 to Mohawk Harbor that day.  The Seneca Chief is scheduled to depart Amsterdam at 9:30 am. The speed will be ~4-5 mph, and arrive on the downstream side of Lock 9 between 11 am and noon. 

Please RSVP to Ed Greiner by clicking here.

Schenectady County paddle boat access to the Mohawk River ramps from west to east are:

• Lock 9 Park below Lock 9 at NYState Rte 103 --- arriving from Amsterdam and Montgomery County 

• Dave Bill's Meadow ramp enter @ 1398 Main St (AKA NYState 5S) Rotterdam Junction --- opposite Woestina Church nice ramp plenty of parking 

• Kiwanis Park NYState 5S at Plotterkill parking somewhat limited -- opposite the Hungry Chicken fast food facility 

• Gateway Landing --- near Schenectady County Community College-- lots of nearby parking

• Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025

• Route: Lock 9 to Mohawk Harbor (Schenectady)

• Distance: Approx. 7 miles (depending on launch site)

• Pace: Slow and steady (max 5 mph) — welcoming to recreational paddlers

• Finish: Mohawk Harbor, 220 Harborside Dr., Schenectady

Important Notes:

• All vessels must follow Buffalo Maritime Center & NYS Canal Corporation flotilla safety guidelines.

• Paddlers line up behind official flotilla boats (no passing/approaching).

• Lock-through will occur after flotilla vessels; follow lock tender directions.

• Keep at least 20 feet between vessels, and carry all required safety gear (PFD required).

• Marine radio channel 13 will be used for communication.

Why Join?

• Celebrate history on the Mohawk during the Erie Canal Bicentennial.

• Paddle alongside the Seneca Chief as part of a regional flotilla.

• Strengthen connections between SWC and NNYP members.

• Share the water with friends, old and new.