You can now create your own itineraries to guide your C&O Canal exploration, or you can copy one of ours! Learn more about Itineraries.
This section of the Billy Goat Trail is by far the most demanding—but extremely rewarding for those who complete it. You’ll scramble and climb over angled rocks and boulders while taking in views of the frothy Potomac as it squeezes through Mather Gorge. The 1.7 mile trail turns into a 3.7 mile loop when you return by the more leisurely C&O Canal towpath.
Because of its rugged terrain and rock scrambling, this section of the trail carries additional cautions with it. Hikers should allow extra time—2 to 3 hours for the cliff trail, and longer for the return loop. If you are not in good hiking condition, have small children, or dogs, you should consider other trails. Section “A” starts below Great Falls near the Stop Gate and ends on the towpath just upstream from the Park’s Angler’s access point.
As with all Billy Goat Trail sections, hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes, be prepared for weather changes, carry and drink plenty of fluids (never drink from the Canal or river), never hike alone, and stay off slippery rocks and cliff faces.
See Billy Goat Trail A: West Trailhead and Billy Goat Trail A: East Trailhead for where to begin your hike.
We know that to preserve something, you need to experience it, so we are proud to provide support to the C&O National Historical Park as their official philanthropic partner.
Please visit the National Park Service website for the following information:
For more information and nearby places to stay or grab a bite to eat, please visit our local tourism partners:
There has been a lapse in appropriations, and a shutdown of the federal government is currently in effect. Much of the C&O Canal National Historical Park remains open to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Visitor services, including park visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, will not be available. Inquiries to the National Park Service will not be received or responded to until the shutdown ends.
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely. Scheduled Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled. While a federal government shutdown is in effect, visitors should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown.
When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations. Love the Park? Help the Trust! Consider making a donation. Your support directly helps fund beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park.