Towpath

The towpath follows along side the canal from Georgetown, in Washington, to Cumberland, Maryland. It offers a clearly designated route to travel. A visitor may view a sense of history, plus the wonders of nature.

The towpath was originally 12 feet wide. Built mainly of earth and crush stone, the towpath made a good surface for the mules that pulled the canal boats. Although the canal is overgrown in many places today, the towpath is unobstructed and follows the length of the canal. Severe weather and heavy rains may cause portions of the towpath to be slippery or wash out completely.