Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
small bridge and turn left onto the towpath. The path here is mostly forested on the right; in winter you
catch glimpses of the Potomac River.
At Lock 5, as you bear right to stay on the path, you will cross an inlet lock. When the canal was in
use, if the water level got low, a gate could be opened to allow water from the river to flow into the
canal. You will notice the canal has a much higher water level from this point on, and the possibility of
seeing waterfowl, mostly ducks, is greater. You will cross from Maryland into the District of Columbia
after passing Lock 5.
The first Chain Bridge was constructed in 1797 and was made of chain trusses, hence the name.
This bridge collapsed in the 1850s and, subsequently, seven more bridges have been built at this cross-
ing. The present bridge is made of steel, but has kept the historical name of Chain Bridge. It connects
Washington with Fairfax County, Virginia.
The views from the center of Chain Bridge are of the Little Great Falls. This rocky portion of the
river is popular with experienced kayakers, but is quite dangerous. Walk almost all the way across the
bridge for the best views, then return to the towpath and continue south toward Fletchers Cove.
On the way to Fletchers Cove, you will pass under an old railroad trestle that is part of the Capital
Crescent Trail—a very busy bike trail that connects Georgetown to Silver Spring, Maryland. Notice
the charming old lanterns hanging from the top of the bridge. On weekdays, the trail is very crowded
with bike commuters, and on weekends with recreational cyclists.
Fletchers Cove is a great place to break your hike with a picnic, or even a paddle in a rowboat or ca-
noe. The area is renowned for great fishing. Fletchers Boathouse has operated here since the 1850s and
is open spring, summer, and fall; visit www.fletcherscove.com for more information. Boats are only al-
lowed to travel south of the cove—not near the falls. Snacks are available.
Before heading back on the towpath, take a short walk up to the Abner Cloud House, the oldest re-
maining building on the canal. It was built by Abner Cloud, who ran a grain mill that provided flour to
Washington from 1802 to 1870. The house is now owned by the National Society of the Colonial
Dames of America and is not open to visitors.
