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.
Swiss nobleman Christoph Graffenreid was attracted to the “small lake with many springs” he found at these “enchanted islands in the Potomac River above the falls.” Archeologists have determined that he was referring to Kanawha Spring. The name of the spring and the neighboring village of Canavest were both derived from the Conoy Indian tribe, whose people inhabited Canavest. Learn more.
Swiss nobleman Christoph Graffenreid was attracted to the “small lake with many springs” he found at these “enchanted islands in the Potomac River above the falls.” Archeologists have determined that he was referring to Kanawha Spring. The name of the spring and the neighboring village of Canavest were both derived from the Conoy Indian tribe, whose people inhabited Canavest. Although the Canavest villagers were friendly, they informed Graffenreid that other Indians in the area might not have the same temperament.
The spring itself has been surrounded by a chain link fence for many years for safety purposes. Be on the lookout for Bald Eagles that have been using the favorable conditions here to raise their families.
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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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.