Things to Do Along the C&O Canal

At 184.5 miles long and 20,000 acres, there are so many ways you can enjoy the C&O Canal National Historical Park!

Outdoor Recreation

Hiking

Hike the towpath or one of the scenic adjoining trails.

Biking

Cycle along the picturesque Potomac River on the C&O Canal towpath.

Boating and Paddling

Get out on the water for a leisurely paddle or historic boat ride.

History and Heritage

Experience the Authentic C&O Canal

Places for History Buffs Not to Miss

Visit a Canal Town

Lodging

Historic Lockhouses

Camping

Trip Ideas

Iconic C&O Canal Discoveries: What Not to Miss

Hidden Gems Along the C&O Canal

Day Trip Jumping Off Points

C&O Canal Libations Trail

Outdoor Recreational Opportunities Along the C&O Canal

Must-See Locales Within 5 Miles of the Canal

A visit to the C&O Canal isn’t complete without visiting its surrounding communities. Museums, breweries, wineries, farms, shopping, dining, and more await!

Montgomery County, MD
Frederick County, MD

Washington County, MD
Allegany County, MD

Jefferson County, WV
C&O Canal Scenic Byway

See, hear, and even taste the area’s authentic heritage — experience the stories of the people, the land, and the waters of Maryland.

Heritage Montgomery Heritage Area

Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area

Passages of the Western Potomac Heritage Area

Other Ways to Get Involved

Support the park

The C&O Canal Trust raises money to help preserve and protect the C&O Canal for future generations. Learn how you can help!

Volunteer

We depend on volunteers to help us preserve and beautify the 20,000 acres of the C&O Canal. Learn how you can help!

Enter Our Photo Contest

Send us your best shots of the C&O Canal and earn fame as the winner of our monthly photo contest.

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Photo credits: Jim Kirby, Sam Judge, Mike Mitchell, Roy Sewall, Garner Woodall, Ryan Brenneman, Tuner Photography, Heidi Schlag, Torrey Mather Langdon, Rachel Claire