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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Photo of inside of Monocacy Aqueduct.
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Plan Your Visit
 

Welcome to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Nearly four million people visit the C&O Canal each year. From spectacular views of Mather Gorge and Great Falls, peaceful walks or bike rides through nature, tours of lock houses and other historic structures, special events, or boat rides on the watered sections of the canal, the C&O Canal offers something for everyone.

Know what you're looking for? Jump ahead: 

 Biking and Hiking  Camping  Schedule of Events
 Boating and Kayaking  Park and Trail Maps  Visitor Centers
 Brochures and Site Bulletins  Recreation Guide by Mile Post  Visitor Guide

For a list of towpath conditions and closures click here.

Friendly volunteers and staff at visitor centers can answer questions and help plan your activities. Each visitor center offers different exhibits and orientation films for that area of the park. Join staff for summer hikes, bike rides, or special programs. Younger visitors can participate in the Jr. Ranger program. Whether you're here for an hour or a few days, we hope you enjoy your exploration of the park.

For a complete list of park regulations click here.

 
Photo of Ranger boatmen in Georgetown.
NPS Photo
Park Rangers and volunteers providing living history canal boat rides is just one example of the many programs offered by the C&O Canal NHP.
 

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Photo upstream entrance Paw Paw Tunnel.

Did You Know?
The Paw Paw Tunnel is 3,118 feet long and is lined with almost six million bricks. The 2/3 mile long tunnel saved the canal builders almost six miles of construction along the Paw Paw bends of the Potomac River. The project took twelve years to complete. The tunnel was only wide enough for single lane traffic.

Last Updated: December 16, 2011 at 13:39 MST