Connecting the town of Rouses Point, near the Canadian border, to Waterford in the Albany vicinity, Lakes to Locks Passage follows one of New York's first waterways for over 200 miles. A combination of highways (Rt 9N, Rt 22, US Rt 4) follow the entire length of Lake Champlain, the mid-Hudson River and the Champlain Canal (a connecting waterway). Recognized early on as an vital trade link, Native Americans, French, British and Americans all vied for control of this area. Today, the Lakes to Locks Passage scenic byway celebrates the historic and cultural aspects of this area, plus the recreational opportunities and beauty of this waterway.
     First proposed in 1912, the Champlain Canal was finally completed in 1832, while the upper section of the canal enjoyed early success in 1819 even before its connection to the Hudson River. Cited as one of the most important waterways in early American trade, this All-American Byway invites travelers to imagine Revolutionary War history at Fort Ticonderoga, the Battle of Saratoga, and Crown Point. Enjoy the beauty of Lake Champlain, and learn of America's first iron ore industry at Port Henry and Moriah.
     Along with this beautiful view of lower Lake Champlain, inset photos include the Iron Center's Moriah Railroad and Mining Heritage Park. Moriah's Witherbee-Sherman and Company office building stands on a hill above the Port Henry Depot, while the Lake Champlain and Moriah RR park train draws the attention of rail fans.
     Stretching out for 200 miles along this north-south waterway, byway travelers will find the Lakes to Locks Passage may take a least a few days and as much as two weeks to explore, depending on your mode of transportation and individual interests. Recognized as an exceptional biking trail, Champlain Trail Bikeways are known to be among the best cycling routes in America.