Erie Canal to close to the public for the season Wednesday night

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — If you’re looking to take that personal cruise or paddle down the Erie Canal, Wednesday is your last day to do it.

The New York State Canal System will officially close for the season Wednesday night, this means locks and lift bridges will no longer be open to recreational boating. The season started back in May.

While public use will end, there are some exceptions for commercial boating. The Colonial Belle, a cruise ship based out of Fairport, will continue its operations through the end of October, as will the Sam Patch canal tours.

The canal will be open Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.