The canal is in operation from early May though late November. call the New York State Division of Tourism at 800-CALLNYS, or go right to the New York State Canal Authority’s comprehensive Web site— www.canals.state.ny.us —for information. You can find out where to rent a canal- or houseboat on the Web site. This includes places like Canal Princess Charters in Tonawanda, which rents houseboats for up to a week, and Mid-Lakes Navigation and Collar City Charters, in Skaneateles and Troy respectively, which provide traditional canalboats for self-piloted trips. For less ambitious mariners, Mid-Lakes also offers a variety of excellent piloted cruises. Boaters will want to obtain the Canal Authority’s Cruising Guide to the New York State Canal System.

The Canal Society of New York State ($15.00 for an individual membership) offers a range of activities and publications (315-682-8378). The very handsome Erie Canal Legacy , newly published by the Landmark Society of Western New York with photographs by Andy Olenick and text by Richard O. Reisern, provides a vivid pictorial look at today’s Erie Canal ( www.eriecanallegacy.com ).

For hikers and bikers, the Canalway Trail, now 45 percent complete, is adding new sections as funding becomes available. An Inn to Inn biking guide is available from the Canal Authority. Two events to keep in mind this season are the Whitehall to Buffalo Canal Cruise and Trail Trek, a two-week adventure in July (800-4CANA14) and the west-to-east Cycling the Erie Canal tour from July 8 to 15 (518-434-1583).

To book accommodations at the Perfectionists’ Mansion House, telephone 315-363-0745.