Lock and Lockhouse 70 (Mile 166.7) in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

PARK OVERVIEW

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park preserves the second major canal dug in the United States, the first being the Erie Canal. Construction began on the C&O Canal in 1828 with the original intention being to dig a canal from Georgetown in Washington, D. C., all the way to Pittsburgh where it would connect with the navigable Ohio River. This was to be done in three phases starting with the eastern section that ran from Georgetown to Cumberland, Maryland, alongside the Potomac River (boats could not travel directly on the river due to waterfalls, rapids, rocks, and periods of very low water). However, by the time the canal reached Cumberland in 1850 it was evident that trains would soon make it obsolete, so the C&O Canal Company cut its losses and ended the project hundreds of canal miles short of Pittsburgh. The C&O Canal operated until 1924, when major flooding did so much damage and trains had taken away so much business that repairs were not even considered.

Unlike the Erie Canal where only sections here and there still exist, nearly the entire C&O Canal is intact—all 184.5 miles of it. Parking lots are located along the canal at picnic areas, campgrounds, boat ramps, and historical structures such as locks, lockhouses, dams, and aqueducts. Some sections have even been put back in working order, and at Great Falls and Williamsport you can take a ride on a canal boat. The rides even pass through a lift lock. Other direct connections to history include the opportunity to stay overnight in one of seven original lockhouses. These houses were built in the early 1800s and lived in by the men, along with their families, who were hired to operate the locks and collect tolls along the canal.

While the opportunity to experience history exists along every mile of the canal, the park’s true draw is its recreational opportunities. Hikers and bikers can travel on the original towpath from Georgetown to Cumberland. Those who want to go farther can connect to the Great Allegheny Passage Trail and continue all the way to Pittsburgh. No-frills campsites have been set up every eight miles or so. Horseback riding is also allowed between Mile 16.6 and 181.8 (mileposts similar to those on highways denote mileage along the towpath).

There are also multiple boat ramps and canoe launches that grant fishermen and paddlers access to the Potomac River. For those wanting a leisurely paddle suitable for small children, select sections of the canal have been refurbished and now contain water.

Sections of the towpath, locks and other historical structures, trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, boat ramps, and visitor centers are constantly being closed due to damage and/or repair. When planning an adventure within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, make sure the areas you plan to visit are open by checking the National Park Service’s official Current Park Conditions web page.

The following video is a travelogue that shows different locations along the canal.