Lakes to Locks Passage, "The Great Northeast Journey," is a designated New York State Byway that brings to life the early Lakes to Locks nation-building activities of the United States and Canada. Lakes to Locks Passage has been designated by the Federal Highway Administration as an "All American Road." This Federal recognition is the "cream of the crop" of America's historic and recreational Byways, a destination for national and international travelers.
At the core of the Byway is the interconnected waterway consisting of the upper Hudson River, Champlain Canal, Lake George, Lake Champlain, Richelieu River and Chambly Canal. The New York State Scenic Byway Program has supported local planning efforts to ensure that this Byway consists of communities that are a great place to live -- because a great place to live is also a great place to do business, and to visit! Throughout the Byway, history and recreation are connected to our communities. Drive the highway, boat the canal, ride the train, bike the back roads, dive through shipwrecks, sail the lakes, and walk the historic hamlets. This Byway allows residents and visitors to understand, experience and appreciate the diverse character of the region, with increased access to the local businesses and services.
Through recorded history, the struggle for control of this important waterway has led to many battles, and a shifting demarcation of boundaries. But since the War of 1812, the border between the US and Canada has been undisputed. These two nations have enjoyed nearly 200 years of peace, and a deep respect for each other's history and heritage.
Lakes to Locks Passage is a partnership that creates a whole that is much greater than the sum of its parts. It unifies a region with a shared history, and creates a way to tell the shared story. Numerous travel books and magazines note that this region possesses an unparalleled beauty, history and "geophysical sense of place". The historic, cultural, natural and recreational opportunities are phenomenal. Through the partnership for Lakes to Locks Passage, "the Great Northeast Journey," the region is a destination unto itself, with national and international appeal.
