There’s always something new to see along the C & O Canal Towpath. While you may have a certain spot in your area you often hike along, there are actually 184.5 miles to explore!

The C & O Canal operated from 1831 until 1924. The original function of the canal was to transport coal.

Wikimedia Commons

The entire route is a total of 184.5 miles in length, stretching from Washington DC to Cumberland, Maryland.

nps.gov

Many people in the DC area enjoy strolling along the Georgetown portion, which is full of character.

Flickr / Mr.TinDC

And if you were to hike all the way to the end, you’d experience more tunnels and rustic sights.

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

Even though the canal boats no longer transport goods, you can still take a ride on these classic structures.

Flickr / Fred Schroeder

Just like decades ago, the canal boats are still pulled by mules. Oftentimes, the operators are dressed in classic garb, making for a step back in time.

Flickr / Bengt 1955

Another way you can interactive with history here is to rent a lockhouse! Not many people know that you can actually stay the night in these historic structures.

Flickr / Pierre Metivier

Favorite activities along the towpath are cycling…

Flickr / KnowledgeCommonsDC

…jogging, or simply hiking. While most people spend a day exploring a tiny section of the path, others have hiked the entire 184.5 miles! For tips on how to do just that, click here. Are you up to the challenge?

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

Wondering the best time of year to visit the C & O Canal? Well, that depends on preference. Summer is a popular time, being warmer but buggier.

Flickr / Pierre Metivier

Spring provides a cool breeze and colorful wildflowers.

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

Autumn is a gorgeous time at the canal, as the leaves all along the towpath turn to blazing copper.

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

If you’re not afraid to brave the cold, winter is unique in its own way. Parts of the canal become frozen over and you may even spot visitors playing ice hockey.

Flickr / Arun Mallikarjunan

Maryland’s C & O Canal is remarkable in many ways and we recommend visiting year-round to enjoy the uniqueness of each season. There’s a reason this place never gets old.

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

Visit the official C & O Canal website by clicking here.

Wikimedia Commons

nps.gov

Flickr / Mr.TinDC

Flickr / Jerry Edmundson

Flickr / Fred Schroeder

Flickr / Bengt 1955

Flickr / Pierre Metivier

Flickr / KnowledgeCommonsDC

Flickr / Arun Mallikarjunan

Did you know that there’s an additional trail that extends beyond the canal in Cumberland? Check out more information on the Great Allegheny Passage by clicking here.

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