Pop, pop, pop...final set of 5

August 5 - 8: Waterford, NY

We stayed at Lock 8 on August 5 after covering 25 miles. The next morning we set off for the final locks of the Erie Canal.

The final 5 locks are called the "Flight of 5" and drops one right after another, about 34 foot each for a total of 169 feet over a mile and a half. Our ears were popping! It's the largest drop in the shortest distance of any lock system in the world...or so says the guidebook.

Bill stylin' with his yellow gloves and matching yellow shorts.

Guard gate 2. On other parts of the canal, the gates are left open, but this one is closed. You have to wait to get clearance to go through the gate to then start the final series of locks.

Entering a lock that has been opened for us.

Tied up to the wall before the lock is emptied.

Looking back at Lonzo exiting one of the locks.


Waterford was celebrating their Heritage Days on the weekend. On Friday, they had a concert with an Irish singer, Kevin McKrell on the tugboat Chancellor. (Bill says you can't walk 5 feet without bumping into an Irishman in this place!) Afterwards, an impressive fireworks display. On Saturday, they had a parade and an antique fire engine competition.

Welcome Center at Waterford. The ladies from the Historical Society were selling baked goods.

FREE tie ups with electric, water and showers. Yahoo!

The parade color guard, in place and ready to go.

Aren't these kids adorable? Note, the owner of the local Irish pub is in the navy jacket behind them. We had a great talk with him. He's from Ireland and his brother Liam was over for a visit. Great folks!