Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, National Historical Park in Cumberland, Maryland
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park protects a waterway corridor along the Potomac River in Maryland and the District of Columbia, featuring more than seventy surviving locks and eleven masonry aqueducts. The towpath runs through dense woodlands and open riverbanks, passing old lockkeeper houses and stone bridges.
Construction began in 1828 with the goal of moving coal shipments from the western mountains to the Atlantic coast. Canal operations ended in 1924 after several severe floods and the rise of railroads, which offered faster connections.
The canal system represents early American engineering achievements with its network of locks, lockhouses, and water management structures along the Potomac River.
The towpath works well for long walks and bicycle rides through woods and along the riverbank, with several basic rest areas spread along the entire route. Some sections can become muddy after rainfall, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Several of the old lockkeeper houses are now open for overnight stays, letting visitors sleep inside the buildings once occupied by workers' families. At two locations, mule-drawn boats operate through working locks during the summer, demonstrating the original transport process.
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