Accessibility

 

The information below may help you better plan your visit. If a particular service or issue is not mentioned, please contact the nearest visitor center for assistance.

Physical / Mobility Needs

All visitor centers and their associated restrooms are accessible.

The canal towpath is a graded gravel path throughout the park. It can get muddy after rain events, making the trail uneven in places.

At Great Falls Tavern, the towpath leads to the Great Falls Overlook from the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. The bridges to the overlook are accessible ramps of wood and cement. This trail is 1/2 mile round trip from the Visitor Center. All other hiking trails are not accessible.

Drive-In campsites located at Antietam Creek and McCoys Ferry have one accessible site including picnic table and accessible fire ring.

Deaf / Hearing Loss

Videos at Great Falls Tavern, Williamsport and Cumberland Visitor Centers are closed-captioned.

ASL interpretation and listening devices are available upon request for ranger-led tours at no charge. Please email us at least three weeks prior to your visit to make arrangements.

A text narrative is also available of the mule-drawn canal boat program.

 

Bridge at Angler's Boathouse

NPS photo

Blind / Low Vision

Exhibits and video at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center main exhibit room are audio described.

Service Animals

Service animals are permitted everywhere visitors go at the C&O Canal. See service animal definitions. All animal waste must be picked up and removed from the park.

Interagency Access Pass

U.S. Citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities qualify for the Interagency Access Pass, which provides free or discounted access to over 2,000 Federal recreation sites. It is currently available at the Great Falls Entrance Station. Learn more about fees at C&O Canal.