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A gravel travel next to a watered canal surrounded by bright greenery

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

warningPark Closure4 warnings calendar_monthApr–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule2 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$10entry
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure Closures: Detours; Towpath; Points of Interest

Multiple items are closed due to hazardous conditions or maintenance. See below for more details. Details open_in_new

Caution DC Water Sewer Overflow

DC Water is managing a sanitary sewer overflow from the Potomac Interceptor near Lock 10. Anyone with questions or in need of support can reach out to DC Water’s 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 or visit https://www.dcwater.com/about-dc-water/media/potomac-interceptor-col Details open_in_new

Caution Hiking in Gold Mine Tract

Visitors are restricted to the designated trails within the Gold Mine Tract in the Great Falls area. This location is generally defined as that area bordered by MacArthur Boulevard and Berma Road and depicted on the Great Falls Maryland Hiking Map. Details open_in_new

Information Equestrian Traffic Temporarily Prohibited - Mile 124.5 to 155

Horses are prohibited between Little Tonoloway (mile 124.5) and Paw Paw (mile 155) due to recent and ongoing towpath resurfacing. See more for details. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park stretches over 184.5 miles along the Potomac River, showcasing the history of the canal system that once played a vital role in transporting goods. Visitors come to explore its scenic trails, historic structures, and the remnants of the canal, which offer a glimpse into 19th-century transportation and commerce.

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This park is not just about the landscape; it also serves as a reminder of the hard work and determination of those who built and operated the canal. The park provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and canoeing, allowing travelers to connect with nature while reflecting on the area's historical significance.

In pictures

A bright blue sky reflects off clear water
A bright blue sky reflects off clear water

Things to do

Multi-Park Loop
Winter/Spring

Park your car and stretch your legs! Visit four different National Parks in Washington, DC and begin logging m...

Skiing and Snowshoeing the C&O Canal Towpath
Winter

During the winter months, the C&O Canal may accumulate enough snow for winter activities like skiing and snows...

Take the Scenic Route on the Potomac Heritage Trail
1-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

There are many places to access the Potomac Heritage Trail, including many connector trails from county parks.

Wildlife Watching - Oldtown C&O Canal
2-4 Hours

Head down the C&O Canal NHP towpath in Oldtown, Maryland into a rare ecosystem mirroring that of the West. Spo...

Take a Boat Ride on the Canal
1-1 Hours · Summer

Today, visitors can enjoy life on the canal during a free replica canal launch boat program at Williamsport. D...

Hike Along the Towpath Through the Paw Paw Tunnel
1-2 Minutes

Walk through the 3,118-foot Paw Paw Tunnel, a significant engineering feature along Mile 155 of the C&O Canal...

Bike the C&O Canal Towpath
3-5 Days · Winter/Spring

By bicycle or on foot, try a short day trip or travel the entire 184.5-mile length of the Chesapeake and Ohio...

Explore the C&O Canal Williamsport Visitors Center
20-60 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Visit the Williamsport Visitor Center at Cushwa Basin for information about the Canal and the surrounding area...

Explore the Georgetown Waterfront
60-160 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Explore the Georgetown Waterfront and imagine the changes the space has gone through.

Explore the Trolley Barn at Cushwa Basin
15-60 Minutes · Spring/Summer

The trolley barn is located across the parking lot from the Cushwa Building. In 1896, the first trolley line i...

Paddle the Middle Potomac
2-4 Days · Winter/Spring

Paddle from Potoma (sic) Wayside, at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, or another launch si...

Practical

At a glance

Established
1971
Open
Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Price
Per Person $10, Motorcycle $15, Private Vehicle $20
Accessibility
varied terrain, some areas accessible
Address
142 W. Potomac St., Williamsport, MD 21795
Opening hours
Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Phone
301-739-4200
Price
~$10
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Parking can fill up quickly on weekends, arrive early.
The park is free to enter, but some activities may have fees.
Restrooms are available at certain locations, plan accordingly.
Dress for outdoor activities, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Photo: NPS