How difficult is the Waterford Flight of Locks paddle?

The paddle is rated easy since you start at the highest point and float downhill, with calm canal waters easing the journey.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

Basic paddling skills are advised, but the gentle current and tranquil water make it accessible for beginners.

Is equipment transport included?

Yes, Upstate Kayak Rentals transports equipment back to the starting point so you can focus on the paddle downstream.

How do I coordinate passing through the locks?

You call the lockmaster at lock 6 once you’re in the water; they manage lock operations to ensure your safe passage.

Where should I park my car?

Park your vehicle at the endpoint near Front and First Street, then shuttle up to the launch area with your gear.

Are there any safety concerns to be aware of?

Wear a PFD at all times, stay aware of lock instructions, and dress appropriately for changing weather conditions.

Paddle Waterford's Flight of Locks with Upstate Kayak Rentals | Kayak | Water Activities

Carving through a historic stretch of canal engineering, Waterford’s Flight of Locks offers paddlers a distinct adventure unlike any typical flatwater trip. Located in Cohoes, New York, this paddling excursion covers the highest elevation increase over the shortest distance along the Erie Canal system, sprawled through a series of six locks. Upstate Kayak Rentals provides a seamless experience here, starting you at the top of the flight on Flight Lock Road and ferrying equipment back to the launch point. This means you can fully immerse yourself in the journey downstream without the hassle of backtracking.

As you set off, the canal feels like a quiet ribbon of glass, edged by tree-lined banks that hint at the region’s industrial past. The locks themselves are massive stone structures that embody 19th-century engineering prowess—each gate a reminder of the canal’s vital role in shaping New York and the broader northeast. The relatively short paddle, taking between 2 and 3 hours, winds through calm waters that reflect the changing skies and nearby marshy wetlands.

Whether you’re drawn by the canal’s history or by the opportunity to glide through a unique elevation drop on water, Upstate Kayak Rentals ensures your day is both memorable and effortless. Their knowledgeable staff provide all the gear and details you need, while the lockmaster’s call once you enter lock 6 coordinates your progress safely and smoothly. This trip is a standout among Upstate New York’s paddling offerings—a peaceful yet dynamic way to connect with an old transportation corridor reimagined for recreation.

For travelers based in Albany or Schenectady, the short drive to Cohoes opens access to this distinctive canal journey, representing a fresh way to read the layers of local geography and history from the water’s vantage.