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.
Lock 51 was completed by William Story in the fall of 1838. This lock was predominantly built using gray limestone, however the lock itself shows many signs of being rebuilt throughout the years. Learn more.
Lock 51 was completed by William Story in the fall of 1838. This lock was predominantly built using gray limestone, however the lock itself shows many signs of being rebuilt throughout the years. Here you can also see the ruins of a lockhouse, built of limestone and red shale, standing on the river side of the towpath.
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 accessible to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Scheduled C&O Canal Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled.
Learn more about what the shutdown means for the C&O Canal National Historical Park.