We rode it last year buffalo to Ithaca and my partners went on to Albany. I wish we had started at Niagara on the Lake though. Route is pretty contiguous but Syracuse was on road. I preferred Erie Canal over C and O GAP. Ithaca is better during the day as it is a little rough. Lots of small touns with lodging and dining options. All trail conditions were great for us, even a few paved portions. Only a few guide books cover it all very well.