Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
carried on through the nineteenth century, and, after economic setbacks and two major floods, the
canal was taken over by the railroad and closed in 1924. It was established as a national historic land-
mark in 1971, and today provides recreational and educational opportunities. The towpath parallels the
canal and is a popular biking and hiking trail.
This portion of the C&O Canal National Historical Park begins at Lock House 8, also known as
River House. Built in the 1830s, it was home to the lockkeeper for almost a century. After the canal
was no longer used for transportation and commerce, the building fell into disrepair. Only recently has
the Potomac Conservancy been able to restore the house, and it is now open for visitors on weekends,
March through October. The new center hosts several special events; visit www.potomac.org/site/
discover-rclh8/ for more information.
After crossing a couple of bridges, take a look at the old lock before joining the C&O Canal
towpath. Shortly after you turn left onto the towpath, you will see several small trails on the right lead-
ing to a branch of the Potomac River. Take any of these trails if you wish to get a nice view of the
rocks in the Potomac, south of Great Falls. You can also see the American Legion Bridge in the dis-
tance, which connects Virginia and Maryland via the Capitol Beltway (I-495). Some of the side trails
are a bit steep, so be careful—but none are very long.
Follow the path to Lock 7, where a similar lockkeeper's house stands along with the ruins of the
lock. Continue on the path to Lock 6. (Note: The lockkeeper's house here has been renovated and is
available for overnight stays. Visit www.canalquarters.org/lockhouse-6.php for more information.)
On the way to Lock 6, you will pass Little Falls; this was the site where President John Quincy
Adams broke ground for the canal on July 4, 1828. There is a pumping station here and ruins of a
small dam.
The path follows straight along the canal and is shady in the summertime. If the water level is low, it
could be buggy, so be sure to have some repellent. It can get muddy after a heavy rain. Fall colors are
spectacular.
When you reach Lock 6, turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
