About Us

Headquartered in Genesee Valley Park*, the Genesee Waterways Center (GWC) is the gateway to outdoor activities on or near the water in Western New York. Here you can experience kayaking, rowing, sculling, canoeing, and whitewater kayaking, as well as hiking and biking—we have programs for everyone! Our recreational facilities and year-round classes are available to all ages and ability levels, from youth to adults and novice to competitive! 

Founded in 1996, GWC is the premier not-for-profit organization promoting paddling, rowing, and related outdoor activities. We offer top-notch instructors and growing facilities, extensive rental equipment for canoeing & kayaking, and more for visitors to make the most of their outdoor experience.

GWC hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including regattas, canoe & kayak races, a whitewater kayaking festival, family programs, and more. We provide technical assistance and guidance to local schools and colleges that would like to begin rowing or kayaking programs. We also offer instructor and coaching certification programs. Contact us for details.

*Genesee Valley Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, a prominent American landscape architect, during the late 1800s. 

Mission Statement:

The Genesee Waterways Center is a non-profit organization that promotes human powered boating and related activities along the local blue and green trails. We are the regional resource for education, programming and facilities highlighting paddling and rowing on the unique waterways of the Genesee Region.