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Paw Paw Tunnel Towpath Open
The rockslide at Paw Paw Tunnel towpath has been cleared. The towpath is now open for hikers and bikers.
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Georgetown Boat Rides Suspended
Boat rides at Georgetown are suspended until further notice. For a mule-drawn boat ride please contact Great Falls Tavern.
184.5 Miles of Adventure!
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural and recreational treasures!
Features
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Explore the canal from the water!
Experience the canal by riding on a canal boat. Rides are offered spring, summer and fall in Great Falls and summer in Williamsport.
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Curriculum-based Education Programs
Ranger guided programs offer opportunities for students to explore the natural and historical features of the canal from Georgetown to Cumberland!
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Calling Canal Discoveries!
Hear hidden stories of the Canal from your cell phone; download the mobile app to access content including pictures and links from anywhere you are!
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Join the Conversation!
Thousands of people stay connected with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park through social media. Are you one of them?
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Discover the Canal in 2013
Hidden Canal Gems are highlighted on the Canal Discoveries website including photos, podcasts, and surrounding locations.
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Schedule of Events
From Civil War programs to mule drawn canal boat rides, explore the C&O Canal year-round!
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Did You Know?
There are several gold mines in the Great Falls area. The largest of these is the Maryland Mine located at the intersection of Falls Road and MacArthur Boulevard near Potomac, Maryland. Gold was first discovered here by a Union soldier from Pennsylvania during the Civil War.