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.
The Cumberland Valley Railroad (CVRR) was chartered in 1831 and began travel in Pennsylvania in 1835. It eventually expanded to Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia. Learn more.
The Cumberland Valley Railroad (CVRR) was chartered in 1831 and began travel in Pennsylvania in 1835. It eventually expanded to Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia. During the Civil War, the railroad supplied Union troops in the Shenandoah Valley, and later ran the first passenger sleeping car in the U.S.
The CVVR’s first bridge across the Potomac, built in 1873, was a 1,000-foot timber truss-covered bridge with an iron roof. The bridge was flooded twice, and though a new metal-through truss bridge was raised 15 feet higher, it was eventually replaced in 1914 by a new bridge just upstream. This new bridge is now used by the Winchester and Western Railroad. Regular passenger train service on the CVRR ended in 1952.
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:
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C&O Canal Explorer!
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.