Over 500 miles of interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes are open to navigation from May 1 through November 15. 

On-water activities include cruising, rowing, canoeing and kayaking, motorboating, and fishing. Watercraft from canoes and small rowboats to fully equipped canal cruisers may be rented through the canal system.

Waterfront parks in communities and at canal locks across the state offer many opportunities for land-based fun, include bicycling, walking, jogging, picnicking, fishing, playing, or just sitting on the bank and watching the boats. Some sections of the Canalway Trail are suitable for in-line skating.

During the winter, the Canalway Trail is a unique place to cross-country ski.