C&O Canal Towpath 📍

The C&O Canal Towpath is a rugged 184.5-mile trail that follows the course of the C&O Canal. This trail allows people to stroll, jog, or cycle between Georgetown and Cumberland, Maryland. Initially constructed for the mules that towed canal boats along the waterway, it has evolved into a well-liked recreational path for modern-day outdoor enthusiasts.

🖼️ Photos 📽️ Videos
Map: Stewart State Forest
Terrain Map: North-South Lake Campground

North End of the Paw Paw Tunnel

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If you look carefully, you can see kayakers paddling in nearly complete darkness in the Paw Paw Tunnel. I had my bike light on and used the flash but I could barely make them out in the darkness of the tunnel.

Saturday October 28, 2023 — C&O Canal Towpath
Thematic Map: Nobody Lives Here - Zero Populaton Blocks in Albany County

Paw Paw Tunnel

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Inside the Paw Paw Tunnel which is 3/4 mile long canal bypass under a mountain. The towpath is the hike/bike trail while you can kayak the canal itself. Both recommend either a good flashlight or a bright bicycle light (I had both, plus I was fairly nearly the south end).

Saturday October 28, 2023 — C&O Canal Towpath
Map: Green Mountain National Forest North

Potomac River Downstream of Paw Paw Tunnel

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Potomac River downstream of the Paw Paw Tunnel from the C&O Trail.

On the left side is Maryland, while on the right is West Virginia. In the distance is Town Hill, which is part of Maryland's Green Ridge State Forest.

Saturday October 28, 2023 — C&O Canal Towpath
Map: Jerseyfield Road Campsites

Paw Paw, West Virginia

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Paw Paw really is a one-horse town. 451 people population, there is a Dollar General, a Post Office, Big and Tiny's Tavern and Mountain Life Italian Pizza Shop. But that's it.

Map: Casey Road Campsite