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.
Near downtown Cumberland, the Canal divided into two elongated turning basins for boats: Main Basin and the broader Shriver Basin. Shriver Basin angled inland from the dividing spot and Main Basin continued along the river. Learn more.
Near downtown Cumberland, the Canal divided into two elongated turning basins for boats: Main Basin and the broader Shriver Basin. Shriver Basin angled inland from the dividing spot and Main Basin continued along the river. Double locks watered both basins and let boats pass back and forth from the basin to the river – although a steam pumping station was needed later to elevate the water level for the 50 miles of canal downstream. A boatyard on the canal berm, started in 1855 by Frederick Mertens and John Snyder, built canal boats.
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.