Mentz, Mile 193.76

The Town of Mentz Boat Ramp provides convenient access to the Erie Canal at Mile 193.76 near Port Byron in Cayuga County. Located on Route 38 approximately 3 miles north of Port Byron, this beach launch accommodates small to medium-sized boats and offers parking for roughly 15 cars and trailers. The ramp is approximately 20 feet wide, making it suitable for kayaks, canoes, and smaller motorboats.

Paddlers should note that the Seneca River diverges from the Erie Canal just north of this location at Haiti Island (Mile 193.77). To stay within the canal's marked navigation channel, keep to the south side and watch for buoys R500 and G499. The Owasco Lake outlet also joins the canal nearby, which may influence water conditions. This section of the Erie Canal offers relatively calm, manageable water ideal for recreational paddling.

The area provides excellent access to nearby attractions including the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, a restored marshland perfect for wildlife viewing, and the Women's Rights National Historical Park in nearby Seneca Falls. From this access point, paddlers can explore either direction along the canal or venture into the Seneca River system.