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Boat Rides at Great Falls
Due to fluctuating water conditions, we cannot guarantee each ride scheduled. Please call 301-767-3714 to confirm the schedule for the day. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
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Towpath at Big Slackwater OPEN
As of September 22, 2012 the towpath is now open in the area known as Big Slackwater (Mile 85.8-88.9). The road detour no longer needs to be used. Towpath access at McMahons Mill (mile 88.1) is still closed until further notice.
184.5 Miles of Adventure!
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural and recreational treasures!
Features
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Join the Conversation!
Thousands of people stay connected with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park through social media. Are you one of them?
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Big Slackwater
Status updates, view photos, and RSVP for the Saturday, October 13, 2012 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
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Curriculum-based Education Programs
Ranger guided programs offer opportunities for students to explore the natural and historical features of the canal from Georgetown to Cumberland!
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Discover the Seasons Along the Towpath
Patches of bluebells and budding green trees splash color along the towpath in spring as well as vibrant reds and yellows as the trees change in fall.
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Explore the canal from the water!
Experience the canal by riding on a canal boat. Rides are offered spring, summer and fall in Great Falls and summer in Georgetown and Williamsport.
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Did You Know?
The Paw Paw Tunnel is 3,118 feet long and is lined with almost six million bricks. The 2/3 mile long tunnel saved the canal builders almost six miles of construction along the Paw Paw bends of the Potomac River. The project took twelve years to complete. The tunnel was only wide enough for single lane traffic.