​​The concept for this new passport-based program originated from my personal experiences on the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Pilgrims obtain a credencial (passport) and collect stamps from approved locations along the route. A compostela (certificate) verifies that you have completed the minimum distance required.

 

¡BuenCamino! is the common greeting is translated to mean "Good Walk" and exchanged by Pilgrims as they traverse along the Way. It exemplifies the true “Spirit of the Camino”, which is an intangible but profoundly transformative force that transcends the physical journey into self-discovery, spiritual renewal, and emotional healing. Pilgrims walk the path with a shared sense of purpose, leaving behind the distractions of daily life to immerse themselves in the simplicity and beauty of the natural world. 

 

The Camino fosters a sense of camaraderie and community, where shared meals, conversations, and laughter create an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance. It teaches the art of surrender, allowing pilgrims to embrace uncertainty, navigate challenges with grace, and prioritize simplicity. The Camino also provides opportunities for reflection and contemplation, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s purpose.

 

New York State's Erie Canal spans 357 miles of the Empire State Trail, from Buffalo to Albany, and is a special place of iconic beauty where history and nature come together, offering visitors a chance to experience the past and enjoy the present. A 187-portion of the Empire State Trail, between Pittsford and Amsterdam is where a pilot program of the ESTAP program is anticipated to launch in 2026 and is fully detailed herein.

 

You will also find in this website all the information on everything you need know before your visit to the Erie Canalway area along the Empire State Trail. I hope that while you are in the area, you are able to discover Upstate New York's other hidden gems worth exploring, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy a multitude of outdoor adventures, historical sites and cultural experiences with a more mindful rhythm and the warmth of small-town charm.

 

I invite you, your family and friends to experience for yourselves the spirit of

¡Buen Camino! by visiting the Erie Canalway and participating in the Empire State Trail America’s Pilgrimage Passport Program (ESTAP). The Canalway is a special place where history and nature come together, offering visitors a chance to familiarize yourselves with the past and enjoy the present. I hope your experiences there will inspire you to return to this special place, discovering new people, places, activities and continue to uncover more cultural and historical treasures. 

 

¡BuenCamino!