The Cumberland Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and closed on Monday, Tuesday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Brunswick Visitor Center is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Entrance fees are only at Great Falls: $20 per car, $15 for motorcycles, $10 per person. Annual pass is $35. Rest of the park is free.
From Washington, D.C., take I-495 to Canal Road, then follow it west to immerse yourself in the historic towpath and scenic Potomac River valley.
Parking lots along the C&O Canal offer spaces for cars, motorcycles, and some RVs. Overnight parking is allowed in designated areas without fees. Larger RVs can use lots like Fletchers Cove and Big Slackwater. No specific RV size limits are mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, a testament to America’s industrial past, unfolds along the serene Potomac River for 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. This historical corridor, once a bustling transportation route from 1828 to 1924, now serves as a verdant oasis for the discerning traveler.
The park’s towpath, originally built for mule teams, is now a haven for hikers, bikers, and runners who traverse the nearly level trail through the stunning scenery of the Potomac River Valley. Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vibrant hues; spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer warms the waters for kayaking and fishing, autumn sets the trees ablaze with color, and winter offers a tranquil silence broken only by the sound of snowfall.
Wildlife thrives here, with eagle sightings common and deer grazing along the riverbanks. The park’s 11 aqueducts, including the impressive 560-foot Monocacy Aqueduct, stand as engineering marvels. Visitors can enjoy rides on reproduction canal boats like the Georgetown and the Charles F. Mercer, pulled by mules and guided by park rangers in historical attire.
In the spring, summer, and autumn, the park comes alive with historical programs and special events. The annual FreeWalkers Kennedy50 50-Mile walk commemorates Robert F. Kennedy’s historic hike along the towpath. Local outfitters offer bike rentals and guided tours, while nearby artisan towns like Harpers Ferry and Frederick provide a rich cultural experience.
For those seeking a deeper connection, the park’s seven visitor centers offer interpretive exhibits and insights into the canal’s history. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a destination that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
- Area (mi²)
- 31
- Annual visitors
- 5 000 000
- Established year
- 1961
Top 3 Facts about Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
The canal, constructed over 22 years, features 74 historic locks that lifted or lowered boats a total of 605 feet between the Potomac River and Cumberland, Maryland.
This scenic corridor, spanning 184.5 miles, is a biodiversity hotspot. Over 120 bird species, including bald eagles, hawks, and vultures, soar above the Potomac River and canal. The waters are home to fish, while turtles, frogs, and snakes inhabit the banks. Rare and endangered species thrive in the floodplains and rocky surfaces. Red-tailed hawks hunt in open fields, and occasional bears roam the western areas. With nearly 200 rare plant species, this ecosystem is a haven for both flora and fauna, making it an unparalleled destination for nature enthusiasts.
Along the Potomac River, the water’s serene amber hues reflect the sun’s dance through the leafy canopies. The towpath winds through a landscape dotted with over 1,000 historic structures, against a backdrop of mountains that rise gently, their peaks shrouded in a misty veil. Here, over 113 rare and threatened species thrive, and the air is crisp with the scent of ancient forests. The path stretches 184.5 miles, a testament to nature’s enduring beauty and human ingenuity.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Living History & Cultural Demons
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in spring to explore the 184.5-mile park, avoiding peak summer crowds. Check the visitor center for trail conditions and parking. Wear sturdy shoes for the gravel towpath and pack meals, as options are limited. Enjoy the Great Falls festival in April.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable temperatures and humidity. Bring waterproof gear and sturdy footwear. Summer: hydration and sun protection. Winter: warm clothing and snow gear. Check forecast for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the diverse habitats by staying on trails, avoiding disturbance of nesting sites, and not feeding wildlife. Be mindful of seasonal flooding and rare species along the river and canal areas. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, trail conditions, and park rules. Yield to pedestrians and horses on trails. Wear helmets, walk bikes over aqueducts, and carry a light source in tunnels. For emergencies, call 911 or 866-677-6677 for non-life threatening issues. Bring extra supplies and let others know your itinerary.
Seasons
Spring awakens with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant blooms. Join the Irish Laborers event in March or Canal Pride Days in April for immersive experiences amidst historic charm and natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this season offers perfect hiking and biking conditions.
Summer brings warmth (80s-90s°F) and vibrant events. Join the Canal For All program in July for engaging community activities and stewardship projects. Mule-drawn boat trips and wide towpaths await bikers, joggers, and hikers. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts despite occasional heat.【 】
Experience autumn’s crisp air and vibrant colors along the historic towpath. September to November, enjoy cooler temperatures (50s-70s°F) and events like Meet the Mules and Tavern Talk, set against a backdrop of changing leaves. Ideal for hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping.
Experience winter’s serene beauty from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 29°F to 43°F. Snow-covered landscapes invite snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating, offering a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for hiking and photography. Caution advised for ice activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Washington, D.C., specifically the Georgetown area, where the canal begins. The park also extends into Maryland, with significant points in cities like Cumberland and Potomac.
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The TRACK Trails in the park, particularly those in Williamsport, are the most family-friendly. These trails, part of the Kids in Parks program, offer self-guided adventures like the Conococheague Aqueduct Scavenger Hunt and Nature’s Hide & Seek, each about one mile roundtrip.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed off-leash or on certain trails like Billy Goat Trail section A and the boardwalk to Great Falls. Owners must also clean up after their dogs.
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You can park at various lots along the canal, from Georgetown to Cumberland. In Washington D.C. and Montgomery County, use lots like Fletchers Cove, Chain Bridge, and Lock 5. Overnight parking is allowed in designated areas, but be sure to submit your vehicle information if parking in D.C. or Montgomery County.
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The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was established as a national historical park on January 8, 1971, when Congress passed legislation to preserve its historical significance. This designation came after the canal’s operational days ended due to flooding and the advancement of railroad technology. The park was dedicated in part to honor the efforts of individuals like Douglas, who played a crucial role in saving the canal from being paved as a highway.