A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.
This contraption, which is no longer in use, is a moving lock. It is a water-filled container, into which a boat sails, which then moves up the incline to let the boat sail out at the higher level.
Today, being Sunday, was much busier on the towpath. Lots of joggers, strollers and cyclists. Must be a great place to live near in that regard.