During the early 1800s, it was difficult and expensive to transport goods from the East Coast to the Great Lakes region. The Erie Canal connected these two areas, causing a population boom in western New York and encouraging settlement around the Great Lakes. Readers learn the history of this important canal through the main content and fun fact boxes, and also discover the many ways travelers can use and enjoy the canal today. Full-color photographs introduce cool destinations near the canal and showcase the locks and other canal structures still in existence.