• 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.

Hiking and Biking

Photo of bikers on the Berma Road adjacent to the C&O Canal.

184.5 miles of towpath creates one of the largest biking trails in the continental US.

NPS Photo

Hiking and biking along the towpath are excellent ways to see the park. Hiker-Biker Campsites are located from Swain's Lock to Cumberland. Several park areas have interpretive trails and other hiking opportunities.

To view hiking maps and walking guides click here.

For bike rental information click here.

Bicycle riding is permitted only on the towpath. The surface of the towpath is for the most part an even hard-packed dirt trail. The towpath can be very muddy following heavy rain. Bicyclists should carry tools for repairs. All hikers and bikers must yield the right of way to horses.

Please follow these basic biking regulations:

  • 15 MPH maximum speed limit on towpath
  • Ride single file
  • Stay to the right except when passing
  • Yield right of way to all pedestrians, horses and mules
  • Walk bikes over aqueducts
  • Sound devices (bell, horn, etc.) are required and should be sounded within 100' of approaching others

Helmets required in accordance with county ordinances. Children under the age of 16 required to wear helmets. Please note: Potable water may not be available at each hiker/biker campsite. Please plan to bring water purification tablets with you.

Hiking Tips:

· Bring water and food
· Wear sturdy footwear
· Be prepared for changing weather conditions
· Know your location
· Share the towpath with other users
· Pack out all trash. Trash bags are provided at dispensers
located throughout the park.

Travel the Canal

Did You Know?

Drawing DaVinci's lock gate design 1485.

Transporting goods and people by canal dates back to antiquity.  The lock gates used on the C&O Canal were an adaptation of a design by Leonardo DaVinci in the late 1400's.  Until the advent of the railroad, water travel was far superior to land travel.