Lehigh Canal, Historic canal system in Northampton County, US.
The Lehigh Canal is a historic waterway system running 46 miles along the Lehigh River with a series of locks and channels built for cargo movement. The structure connects different areas in Northampton County through its preserved infrastructure and remains largely intact today.
Construction began in 1827 to move anthracite coal from Pennsylvania mines toward Delaware River markets. Railroad competition in later decades gradually reduced the waterway's role in commerce.
The canal shaped life for people living along its banks, creating work centers for laborers and traders. Today you can see how communities developed around the waterway and still maintain their connection to it.
The towpath system offers multiple entry points and connects various parks along the route, making it easy to visit different sections. Most areas are accessible on foot or by bike for a relaxed outdoor experience.
The system featured innovative wooden locks designed by Josiah White that transformed how water transport worked. Few visitors realize this engineering approach was groundbreaking for its time.
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