Explore the Scenic Trails of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath
Discover the beauty and history of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's Towpath, a prime hiking area in Washington, D.C.
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath offers tourists a picturesque hiking experience along the historic canal, showcasing the beauty of nature and history in Washington, D.C.
A brief summary to Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath
- 5525 Potomac Ave NW, Washington, Northwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20016, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking to enjoy the towpath fully.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
- Consider visiting during early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photos.
- Check for guided tours or ranger programs that provide deeper insights into the canal's history.
- Look out for wildlife along the trail, including various bird species and small mammals.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's Towpath, start by entering the park via the main entrance located at 5525 Potomac Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016. From the main entrance, follow the signs to the Towpath trailhead. There is parking available near the trailhead, but be aware that parking may have a fee or time limit, so check for any posted signs.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's Towpath via public transportation, first take the Metro to the nearest station, which is the 'Tenleytown-AU' station on the Red Line. From there, you can catch the DC Circulator bus (the 'National Mall route') that will take you close to the park. Get off at the stop closest to 5525 Potomac Ave NW. From the bus stop, walk approximately 0.5 miles to the Towpath trailhead. Be sure to check the latest schedules and fares for the Metro and Circulator bus before your trip.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, you can ride along the bike lanes or trails leading to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's Towpath. Make sure to have a bike lock since you will need to secure your bicycle at the trailhead. You can access the Towpath directly from various points along the park, so look for signs indicating bike trails as you approach.
Discover more about Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath
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