Paw Paw Tunnel Closure

History

In January 2013 the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park experienced a significant rockslide near towpath mile 155, just downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel. While investigating the rockslide, numerous other large rock formations were discovered to be on the verge of collapse. Due to the potential threat of another significant rockslide in addition to the current blockage, the towpath area just downstream of the east portal of the tunnel will remain closed until the path can be cleared and the remaining rock stabilized.

April 2013 Update

On April 2, 2013 park crews began clearing stone debris off of the canal towpath just downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel. Work on clearing the slide was delayed until a thorough geotechnical analysis could be accomplished to ensure that park workers could clear the debris safely and determine if any stabilization work was needed. This analysis was conducted last week and made possible by a donation from the Allegheny Trail Alliance. As a result of the engineering study repair work to remove the slide and complete interim stabilization has begun. Superintendent Brandt stated that "If the weather and our equipment hold up the plan is to complete these steps over the next two to three weeks. At that time, the towpath will reopen downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel and the Tunnel Hill Trail detour will no longer be necessary."

Tunnel Hill Trail Detour

In order to bypass the closed area, all hikers and bicylists must use the Tunnel Hill Trail to detour around the Paw Paw Tunnel.

• Bicyclists must dismount and walk bikes on the trail
• 2-mile dirt trail accessible at either end of the Paw Paw Tunnel
• 362 foot elevation change
• Approximately 2-3 hours one-way for bicyclists
• Approximately 1 hour one-way for hikers
• It may take two people to move bikes and bikes with trailers up and down hill
• Bicyclists should use caution when traveling downhill
• Photos of the trail provide a better idea of the condition however, there are steep dropoffs and uneven surfaces

The park has looked into alternate routes. At this time, there is no other safe alternative to bypass the tunnel. If there are any changes to this, the public will be informed.

Paw Paw Tunnel

The tunnel is only accessible from the west entrance (nearest the parking area). Visitors can walk through the tunnel. However, after exiting the east end visitors will find the towpath blocked and barricaded and must return to the parking area through the tunnel.

For your safety and the safety of others, park staff request visitors adhere to all signs and barricades directing them away from the hazard area. We appreciate your patience while the park works to stabilize the rockslide and surrounding area.

More Information

Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/chesapeakeandohiocanal

Call the Cumberland Visitor Center at 301-722-8226

 

x