Lock 17

Without a doubt, this was the most impressive lock so far. It is the highest lift lock on the Erie Canal and is one of two locks in north America where the entrance gate is lifted ABOVE the boaters, with a 20 foot clearance. It lifts the boater 40 feet. It does not have cable or pipe, but has rope only. That means the boater is holding on to a rope, 40+ feet above them and ropes, as you know, swing out! They are not attached at the bottom. It's interesting how each boat seems to have their own method of negotiating the challenge. But all so far have made it through, and there, Thank God have been no mishaps or float aways!