C&O Canal National Historical Park Celebrates 50 Years as a National Park

C&O Canal National Historical Park Tow Path in Montgomery County, Maryland
Credit: Guillermo Olaizola / Shutterstock

Today marks the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s 50th Anniversary of the becoming part of the National Park Service. The 184.5-mile-long recreational, educational and historic attraction welcomes over 5 million visitors each year. It is a major economic driver for the four Maryland counties – including Montgomery County – and the ten Canal Towns it passes through, responsible for approximately $98.4 million in visitor spending in 2019.

Fox 5 DC’s Kevin McCarthy spent the morning with Visit Maryland’s Matthew Scales, National Park Service Ranger Millie Jimenez, and C&O Canal Trust’s Heidi Schlag to learn about the wide range of things to do to celebrate the C&O Canal’s 50th Anniversary in 2021.

The C&O Canal Experience

The History and Impact on the Community Today

Experience the History of the C&O Canal by Staying in a Lockhouse

Looking to extend your C&O Canal Experience? Considering adding a visit to Glenstone Museum, savor a pint at a brewery along the Tastemakers Trail or take a scenic drive in Montgomery County’s “Upcounty” area in the Agricultural Reserve.

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