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.
Poolesville is located in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve. The Watershed Café is the Agricultural Reserve’s only farm-to-table restaurant. Learn more.
Poolesville is located in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve. The Watershed Café is the Agricultural Reserve’s only farm-to-table restaurant. They serve breakfast and lunch from scratch in a family-friendly atmosphere. They also have a wide beer and wine selection. At mile marker 30.9, take Edwards Ferry Rd. for 2.6 miles, and then turn right on Westerly Rd. In 1.5 miles, turn left on W. Williard Rd. In .6 miles, turn right on Fisher Ave. Continue for .5 miles, and Watershed Café will be on your left. OR At mile marker 35.5, leave the towpath and turn left on White’s Ferry Rd. Take this road for 6.6 miles, and Watershed Café will be on your left.
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.