Explore the Scenic Towpath of Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Discover the natural beauty and historical significance of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's Towpath in Washington, D.C.
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath is a picturesque hiking area in Washington, D.C., offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With its well-maintained trails, visitors can enjoy serene walks alongside the Potomac River, lush greenery, and a glimpse into the region's rich history.
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 hiking shoes to enjoy the trails fully.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
- Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit for a more enjoyable experience.
- Look for interpretive signs along the path to learn more about the canal's history.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start by navigating to 5525 Potomac Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016. From there, head south on Potomac Ave NW toward Nebraska Ave NW, then make a right turn onto Nebraska Ave NW. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with MacArthur Blvd NW. Turn left onto MacArthur Blvd NW, which will take you alongside the Potomac River. After about 1.5 miles, look for signs directing you to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. You can find parking at various access points along the canal, including the Great Falls Tavern area.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, take the Metro to the Tenleytown-AU station on the Red Line. From there, you can catch the DC Circulator bus (Route: Georgetown-Union Station) towards Georgetown. Get off at the stop near the intersection of MacArthur Blvd NW and Canal Rd NW. From there, walk approximately 0.5 miles southwest along Canal Rd NW to access the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. Be sure to check the WMATA website for current schedules and fare prices.
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Bicycle
For those who are biking, you can bring your bicycle on the Metro to the Tenleytown-AU station. From there, follow the same route as the public transportation option, but you can ride along the streets instead of walking. Ensure that you wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules as you navigate to the Towpath.
Discover more about Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Towpath
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welcome to Fort Ethan Allen Historical Markers
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C&O Canal Lock 6
2.0 km
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Northwest 6 Boundary Stone
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Embassy Row
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The Bay-Eva Castle Site Historical Marker
4.1 km
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Hall's Hill Wall Historical Marker
4.3 km
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Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge
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St. John's Episcopal Church, Georgetown
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The Arlington Line Historical Marker
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Clarendon War Memorial
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Bonds Escape Room - Arlington
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Clara Barton National Historic Site
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The View of DC
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Newton D. Baker House
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Arlington Convention and Visitors Service
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Unmissable attractions to see
Capital Crescent Trail
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George Washington Memorial Parkway Second Overlook
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Fort Ethan Allen Park
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Gulf Branch Nature Center & Park
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Fort Marcy
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Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
1.4 km
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Scenic Overlook
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Battery Kemble Park
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Potomac Overlook Regional Park
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The Kreeger Museum
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Little Falls Stream Valley Park
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Rock Spring Park
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Washington National Cathedral
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Mural by David de la Mano
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Fort C.F. Smith Park
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Essential places to dine
Cowboy Cafe
3.8 km
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Ambar Clarendon
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Wilson Hardware
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Mazaro Italian Restaurant
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Buena Vida Gastrolounge
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Guerra Steakhouse
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Mele Bistro
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Maison Cheryl
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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
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Fire Works Pizza
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Rhodeside Grill
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Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
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Inca Social
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Barley Mac
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Don Tito
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pam K. Bambini Children’s Boutique
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The Shops at Sumner Place
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Lemoncello Boutique
3.4 km
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Lee Heights Shops
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Wiggle + Scoot | Apparel and Gift Shop
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The Italian Store at Lyon Village
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EILEEN FISHER
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A Mano, Inc.
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The Collection at Chevy Chase
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Current Boutique | Designer Consignment Shop
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Colonial Village Shopping Center
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Arlington Courthouse Plz 1 & 2
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The People's Place BLVD
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The Crossing Clarendon
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The Golden Fox Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Verre Wine Bar
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Galaxy Hut
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BABA
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Courthaus Social
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QUINN'S
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Continental Pool Lounge
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Spider Kelly's
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O'Sullivan's Irish Pub
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Screwtop Wine Bar
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First Down Sports Bar & Grill
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Ms. Peacock's Champagne Lounge
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WHINO
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The Barking Dog
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The Fourth Wall Bar and Cafe
6.5 km
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Hip Flask Rooftop Bar
6.6 km
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