For Immediate Release Press Contact: Noah Howard, Public Relations Manager pr@tourcayuga.com

CAYUGA COUNTY, April 2025 – The Cayuga County Office of Tourism is proud to announce that the Villages of Montezuma, Port Byron, and Weedsport have been selected to begin the application process for official designation as Empire State Trail Towns. This exciting opportunity, offered through Parks & Trails New York and funded by the New York State Canal Corporation, helps canal corridor communities grow outdoor recreation tourism and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

These three connected villages, located along a scenic 12-mile stretch of the Empire State Trail adjacent to the historic Erie Canal, were recognized for their unique blend of history, hospitality, and commitment to welcoming trail users. As part of the program, the communities will receive planning support, participate in public workshops, and build local partnerships focused on enhancing their trail-friendly infrastructure and amenities.

“The pursuit of the Trail Town designation reflects our commitment to advocating for Cayuga County’s smaller communities as vibrant, welcoming destinations where heritage, recreation, and local pride intersect,” said Karen Kühl, Executive Director of the Cayuga County Office of Tourism. “By supporting this initiative, we’re not just investing in tourism —we’re amplifying the voices of our residents and ensuring that the benefits of the Empire State Trail are shared by all who live, work, and explore here.”

During the program’s ten-month process, Parks & Trails New York will help each community identify and promote trail-accessible businesses, improve signage and amenities, and develop a shared vision to enhance the experience for hikers, cyclists, and history-seekers who use the Empire State Trail. The initiative will culminate in an action plan to guide future development and bolster regional tourism.

Trail users traveling through Montezuma, Brutus, and Mentz can already enjoy a range of offerings, from canal heritage attractions like the Old Erie Canal Heritage Park andRichmond Aqueduct, to locally owned cafés, breweries, and convenient accommodations. The Trail Town designation will further position these communities as must-visit destinations on one of the nation’s premier multi-use trails.

The Trail Town program is part of a statewide effort to support New York’s growing trail economy and celebrate communities that actively engage with and care for the Empire State Trail. Since the Trail’s completion in 2020, it has become a vital corridor for both recreation and regional revitalization.

Please visit the Parks & Trails NY 2025 Empire State Trail Towns page to learn more.