• Historic Shot of Canal Boat on the Canal

    Chesapeake & Ohio Canal

    National Historical Park DC,MD,WV

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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.

  • Georgetown Boat Rides Suspended

    Boat rides at Georgetown are suspended until further notice. For a mule-drawn boat ride please contact Great Falls Tavern.

Boat and Bicycle Rentals

The National Park Service partners with two concessioners in the downstream end of the canal.

The Boathouse at Fletchers Cove located at milepost 3.2
Bicycle and Kayak Rentals
www.fletcherscove.com

Thompson Boat Center located at milepost 0
Bicyle and Kayak Rentals
www.thompsonboatcenter.com

Did You Know?

Photo canal boat exiting lock 20.

Most freight boats on the C&O Canal were approximately 95 feet long and 14.5 feet wide while most locks were 100 feet long and 15 feet wide. This left boat captains little margin for error as they steered their boats into the locks, trying to avoid the $5.00 fine for damaging lock masonry.