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.
Falling Waters, West Virginia got its name from a cascading stream near the Potomac. A convenient river crossing, its most famous crossing came in the summer of 1863. Learn more.
Falling Waters, West Virginia got its name from a cascading stream near the Potomac. A convenient river crossing, its most famous crossing came in the summer of 1863.
After the Confederate defeat at Gettysburg, General Robert E. Lee and his army retreated toward the Potomac River, seeking safety in West Virginia. Heavy rains stranded the Confederate army in Maryland for days, and Lee’s army worked making pontoon boats to cross the river. Rains continued, and ambulance wagons with the wounded and cattle were ferried across while conditions permitted. By the night of July 13, water levels had subsided enough for the Confederates to cross the Potomac River while Union forces deliberated how to attack. The rain and darkness concealed the retreat, with branches spread across the pontoons to muffle the sounds of horses, wagons, and artillery. When Union troops realized the enemy had forded the river, they charged the Confederates and a battle ensued. Both armies disagreed in the newspapers after the fact about exactly how many Confederate men were captured – General Lee estimated around 500 while Union Major General George Meade put the number at 2,000. Historians tend to agree with Lee.
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.