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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical ParkPhoto of Georgetown boat at Abner Cloud House.
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184 1/2 Miles of Adventure

Preserving America’s colorful Canal era and transportation history, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is 184.5 miles of adventure. Originally, the C&O Canal was a lifeline for communities and businesses along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, grain and other agricultural products floated down the canal to market. Today millions of visitors hike or bike the C&O Canal each year to enjoy the natural, cultural and recreational opportunities available. 

 
 
Photo of Charles F. Mercer

Volunteer

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park realizes its mission of protection, preservation, and interpretation of park resources would not be possible without our volunteers. Click on the link below to learn more about volunteering in the park. More . . .

 
Photo Park Ranger in historic clothing with mule at Great Falls.

Ranger-Led Programs in the Park

Join a Park Ranger for an interpretive and informative program, which may include a hike, a walk, a talk, a demonstration or even a mule! There also is a new interactive canal display in Williamsport great for children. The schedule of programs changes every season. Each time of year offers unique glimpses of park resources and something new to explore along the C&O Canal.
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Photo park employee repairing building.

Current Projects

A listing of current projects in C&O Canal NHP, and opportunities to review and comment.  This links to the park's Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) site.  Click on the link below for more information.
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Write to

C&O Canal NHP Headquarters
1850 Dual Highway, Suite 100
Hagerstown, MD 21740-6620

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters
(301) 739-4200

Visitor Information
(301) 739-4200

Fax

(301) 739-5275

Climate

Summers are generally hot and humid. Winters are generally cold with variable precipitation. Layers of clothing, especially in spring and fall, and good walking shoes are recommended.
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Photo Potowmack Company canal lock at Great Falls Virginia.  

Did You Know?
George Washington's dream of connecting the eastern states with the western frontier led to the creation of the Patowmack Company. Locks were built around unnavigable parts of the Potomac River for improved commerce. The C&O Canal inherited the right of way after the Patowmack Company's demise.

Last Updated: June 19, 2008 at 08:09 EST