The best cycling routes around Fairport
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Touring cycling around Fairport is characterized by its flat terrain and extensive network of trails, primarily centered around the historic Erie Canal. The region features a blend of waterfront paths, shaded routes, and village scenery, with minimal elevation changes. Cyclists can explore the Erie Canalway Trail, which offers continuous views of the canal and passes through natural areas like the Thomas Creek Wetlands. The landscape also incorporates sections along the Genesee River and various local parks.
Best touring cycling routes around Fairport
- The most popular touring cycling route is Erie Canalway and Genesee Riverway Trail Loop, a 20.7 miles (33.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 54 minutes to complete. This route combines scenic canal views with diverse river scenery.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Pittsford town – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop from Village of Pittsford, an easy 17.7 miles (28.5 km) path. This trail connects the villages of Fairport and Pittsford along the Erie Canal.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Erie Canalway Trail – Pittsford town loop from Village of Pittsford, a 23.0 miles (37.0 km) trail leading through the Erie Canal corridor, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Fairport is defined by the historic Erie Canal, flat canal-side paths, and connections to the Genesee River, offering accessible routes for various skill levels. The network provides options for both leisurely rides and longer excursions.
- The routes in Fairport are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Fairport's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
38
riders
33.3km
01:55
110m
110m
Cycle the easy 20.7-mile Erie Canalway and Genesee Riverway Trail Loop, exploring historic canals, urban parks, and dramatic waterfalls.
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55
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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40
riders
37.0km
02:08
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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47
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22.1km
01:21
40m
40m
This easy 13.7-mile (22.1 km) touring cycling route along the Erie Canal offers a delightful escape into nature and history, perfect for a leisurely ride. You'll pedal beside the tranquil waterway, enjoying views of woodlands and the occasional wildlife, like deer and geese, that frequent the banks. The path itself is a mix of paved asphalt and smooth stonedust, providing a comfortable surface for most bikes, though some connecting sections near Pittsford might be rougher.
Planning your ride is straightforward, with plenty of amenities available. The towns of Fairport and Pittsford offer cafes, pubs, and restaurants for a pre- or post-ride treat. You'll find convenient parking at Fairport for Erie Canal bike loop access, and the route is well-equipped with municipal parks and restrooms along the way. This makes it a great option for a relaxed outing, especially during pleasant weather.
The Erie Canalway Trail Fairport Pittsford section is part of the larger Empire State Trail, boasting miles of unbroken trail where roads pass over the canal, ensuring a continuous cycling experience. This historic waterway, with its unique engineering feats like the horseshoe-shaped bulge between Pittsford and Fairport, provides a fascinating backdrop. It's a truly family friendly cycling route, offering scenic viewpoints and a chance to connect with American history.
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If you're looking for an easy, scenic touring cycling experience, the Bridge over the Erie Canal – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop from Fairport is a fantastic choice. This 17.5-mile (28.1 km) route, with a negligible 110 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, offers picturesque canal-side views, woodlands, and wetlands, all on a mostly flat surface of paved asphalt and "stonedust." You'll enjoy the historic atmosphere as you cycle past the Fairport Lift Bridge and through the charming village of Fairport, making for a pleasant ride that takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is very accessible and well-maintained. Much of the route is off-road, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from vehicle traffic. Fairport itself is a vibrant canal town, offering plenty of options for refreshments or a meal before or after your ride. The trail is equipped with amenities like parks, benches, and bike racks, making it convenient for all users.
This loop is a segment of the historic Erie Canalway Trail, which is part of the larger Empire State Trail, rich in history and engineering marvels like the "Great Embankment." It's an excellent way to experience the legacy of the Erie Canal while enjoying a family-friendly cycling adventure. The flat terrain and well-maintained path make it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, offering a glimpse into New York's past amidst beautiful natural scenery.
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Popular around Fairport
Tips from the Community
This section of the Erie Canalway Trail is flat, paved, and pretty easy biking for all ability levels. Like the majority of the path, you get continuous views of the water and have the opportunity to extend your ride for miles in both directions.
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This paved-over rail trail runs more than 22 miles along the river. If you bike the whole length you'll see at least three waterfalls in the beautiful Genesee River Gorge, while also passing through eleven parks and across eight pedestrian bridges.
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The Court Street Dam, just south of Court Street's crossing of the Genesee River, was built in 1927. It replaced the Mohawk Dam that was built in 1917.
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This is an easy 5 miles point to point trail that is ideal if looking for a quick ride. Now as the leaves are changing - it’s awesome.
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This is a lovely scenic bridge that takes you from the Erie Canalway Trail and trailhead on the north side to the RS&E Trail and Crescent Trail on the south side.
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This is an old historic bridge built in 1893. You will pass an information board on the Promenade that details the history of the three attempts that were made at its construction. You may need to dismount your bike to cross the bridge itself if you are making a loop with the Genesee River Trail. From here you get a great view of the Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge.
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The Greenway sweeps under the triple arch steel bridge as you follow the Genesee River. The Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge, also known as the "Anthony Bridge" or "Freddie Sue Bridge" was built in 2007 and is an icon of downtown Rochester.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Fairport?
Fairport offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with over 25 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, including easy, moderate, and a few more challenging rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Fairport's cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes around Fairport are predominantly flat, making them suitable for all skill levels. You'll primarily ride along the historic Erie Canalway Trail, which features continuous canal views, shaded paths, and sections with both paved and stone dust surfaces. The region also incorporates parts of the Genesee Riverway Trail and various local parks, offering diverse scenery.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Fairport?
The best time for touring cycling in Fairport is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the canal-side paths are vibrant with nature. While the Erie Canalway Trail is generally accessible, winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making some sections less suitable for cycling.
Are there any loop trails for touring cyclists in Fairport?
Yes, Fairport offers several excellent loop trails. A popular choice is the Erie Canalway and Genesee Riverway Trail Loop, which combines scenic canal views with diverse river scenery. Another option is the Pittsford town – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop from Village of Pittsford, connecting the villages of Fairport and Pittsford.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Fairport?
The touring cycling routes in Fairport are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the flat, accessible paths along the historic Erie Canal, the scenic waterfront views, and the charming village atmosphere of Fairport itself. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails and the blend of natural beauty with historical significance.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families with children?
Absolutely. Fairport is an ideal destination for beginners and families due to its predominantly flat terrain and well-maintained trails. Many routes, like the Fairport NY Erie Canal – Pittsford town loop from Village of Fairport, are rated as easy and offer a comfortable riding experience along the canal. The Erie Canalway Trail itself is known for being family-friendly.
Where can I park my car when cycling in Fairport?
You'll find convenient parking options for accessing the cycling trails. Perinton Park, located directly on the Erie Canal, offers ample parking and direct access to the Canalway Trail. Many trailheads along the Erie Canalway Trail also provide designated parking areas.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the cycling routes?
Fairport's cycling routes are rich with historical and natural attractions. You can cycle past the historic Bridge over the Erie Canal, a notable structure from 1914. The Erie Canalway Trail itself is a highlight, offering continuous views of the canal. You might also encounter guard gates and enjoy birdwatching at the Thomas Creek Wetlands. The village of Fairport provides charming canal-side establishments for a break.
Are there any accessible bike paths in Fairport for all abilities?
Yes, Fairport is committed to accessible outdoor recreation. The flat and well-maintained Erie Canalway Trail is largely accessible, making it suitable for cyclists of varying abilities. Organizations like the Erie Canal Boat Company also offer adaptive cycling options, further enhancing accessibility in the area.
Can I bring my dog on the bike trails in Fairport?
Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash on the Erie Canalway Trail and in most parks in Fairport, including Perinton Park. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any restrictions or requirements regarding pets before you go.
Are there cafes or pubs near the Fairport bike trails?
Yes, the village of Fairport is known for its vibrant community with local shops and eateries right along the canal. Cyclists can easily stop for a coffee, a meal, or a refreshing drink at canal-side establishments. Towns like Pittsford and Bushnell's Basin, also accessible via the trails, offer additional canal-side dining options.
What is the difficulty level of the touring cycling routes in Fairport?
The majority of touring cycling routes in Fairport are rated as easy, with 17 out of 26 routes falling into this category. There are also 8 moderate routes and 1 difficult route for those seeking more of a challenge. The flat terrain along the Erie Canal makes most rides very approachable for all skill levels.
Are there any hidden gem cycling routes in Fairport?
While the Erie Canalway Trail is well-known, exploring the connections to local parks and lesser-traveled sections can reveal hidden gems. For instance, the Bridge over the Erie Canal – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop from Village of Fairport offers a pleasant ride that includes local scenery. Additionally, the extensive network of trails within the Town of Perinton, such as parts of the Crescent Trail, can offer quieter, more secluded experiences.
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