About this C&O Canal Explorer Mobile App

This C&O Canal Explorer Mobile App was developed by the C&O Canal Trust in collaboration with the C&O Canal National Historical Park, and is the official mobile app to help you explore all of the recreational, natural, and historic wonders of the C&O Canal.

If you are looking for ideas of fun day trips, itineraries, or hidden highlights in the Park, be sure to visit these pages:

  • Explore the Canal: A blog full of things to do, places to explore, and facts you never knew!
  • Itineraries: A collection of itineraries frequent Canal visitors have compiled.
  • Hidden Highlights: Our Canal Discoveries include over 40 hidden gems in the Park, accompanied by Park Ranger stories.
  • Favorite Things: Not sure where to start? Here is a listing of our most popular sites.

About the C&O Canal

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was started in 1828 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. After closing due to competition from the railroads and the destruction of floods in 1924, the area languished in disrepair. In 1971, in became a National Historical Park.

Today, the C&O Canal National Historical Park contains over 20,000 acres of historical, natural and recreational treasures! Featuring a 184.5 mile towpath, the Park is popular with hikers and bikers, as well as paddlers who enjoy the neighboring Potomac River and its offshoots. With over 113 rare and threatened species of plants and animals, over 1,000 historic structures, and a rich history of native cultures, transportation growth, and Civil War conflict, the Park has something to offer everyone!

About the C&O Canal Trust

Founded in 2007, the C&O Canal Trust is the official non-profit partner of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Our mission is to work in partnership with the National Park Service to protect, restore, and promote the C&O Canal. The Trust engages communities and individuals to realize the Park’s historical, natural, and recreational potential.

Our Mission Statement: The C&O Canal Trust, as the official non-profit partner of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, works in partnership with the National Park Service and local communities to raise funds to preserve the Park for future generations and to broaden support through programs that highlight the Park’s historical, natural, and cultural heritage and recreational opportunities.

To make a gift to ensure the continued preservation and beautification of the C&O Canal, please visit our website.