Hike Along the Towpath Through the Paw Paw Tunnel

View from inside the Paw Paw Tunnel

NPS | Steve Dean

Park at the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground at MP 156 and walk south and through the 3,118-foot Paw Paw Tunnel at MP 155.2. Bring a flashlight to see history of canal operations come to life through the markings of ropes, rub rails, and brass plates throughout the inside of the tunnel.

Address:  The Paw Paw Tunnel has no street address, search "Paw Paw Tunnel Campground"
GPS Coordinates: 39°32'39.1"N 78°27'39.2"W

Details

Duration

1-2 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Park at the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground at MP 156 and walk south and through the 3,118-foot Paw Paw Tunnel at MP 155.2. Bring a flashlight to see history of canal operations come to life through the markings of ropes, rub rails, and brass plates throughout the inside of the tunnel.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Must be on a leash at all times. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Paw Paw Campground and Picnic Area Parking Lot

Park at the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground and Picnic Area at MP 156 and walk south. 

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

This hike follows the C&O Canal towpath, which is a mostly flat path. Towpath access possible at the Paw Paw Campground from a wheelchair via a wide path. The path is semi-steep and the same surface texture as the towpath.