Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Spanning 184 miles from Washington DC through Virginia and Maryland, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park was established in 1961 to preserve the historic canal that once thrived as a major industrial route. Active from 1831 to 1924, the canal played a crucial role in transporting coal and timber. Today, visitors can explore the park’s serene towpaths, which follow the meandering waterway, and discover the remnants of old locks and aqueducts. The park offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and learning about the canal’s rich history.