Hike to revisit canal days

CUDDEBACKVILLE — Explore Orange County history on an informational hike along a newly improved three-mile section of the historic Delaware & Hudson Canal trail.

Free transportation back to the starting location will be provided.

The Delaware & Hudson Canal and Gravity Railroad Conservancy has been working for three years to create a trail along the historic canal route. The conservancy has been working in partnership with Orange County Parks, which owns the route from Port Jervis to Westbrookville and has issued a license to conservancy to make improvements.

“The D&H Canal is a great example of the incredible history that can be found in Orange County,” said county Executive Edward A. Diana.

Conservancy president Cliff Robinson Jr. said the conservancy hopes this will be the first of several sections to be re-developed for public use.

"Through the continuing efforts of a lot of people, and our partnership with the county, this historic route is being made available to anyone who wishes to walk or bike the trail," Robinson said. "It’s our sincere desire that many people take advantage of this wonderful historic resource.”

The conservancy is planning the hike in partnership with the Orange County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Conservation and Orange County Pathways. For more information visit the D&H Canal and Gravity Railroad Conservancy Facebook page or www.orangecountynyparks.com.