“The list of work that needs to be done is never-ending. We are so grateful for our long-standing partnership with the C&O Canal Trust,” said Amanda Zimmerman.

NPS Park Ranger Amanda Zimmerman was one of the many people who joined us out in the park on April 25 for the C&O Canal Trust’s annual public Canal Community Days volunteer event at Great Falls. Nearly 100 volunteers attended, and despite the cold and rainy day, they made an enormous impact in one of the most popular sections on the 184.5 mile stretch of the C&O Canal towpath. (more…)

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April 19-27, 2025 is National Park Week! During this week-long celebration, national parks across the country provide opportunities for visitors to come together to explore and celebrate these beautiful, natural places. (more…)

In honor of Judge William O. Douglas, who served as a Justice of the Supreme Court from 1939 – 1975,  known equally as a passionate outdoorsman and as an advocate for conservation of treasured natural spaces, we pause to reflect on the impact of his commitment to the C&O Canal, now known as a C&O Canal National Historical Park, a treasured place for the millions of people each year who enjoy the natural, cultural, and recreational resources of the park, making it one of the most heavily visited national parks in the country. Yet, many visitors do not realize that this beautiful strip of land alongside the Potomac River was almost paved over. (more…)

The C&O Canal Trust was founded in 2007 as the official nonprofit philanthropic partner of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, working in close partnership with the National Park Service (NPS). The Trust serves as a bridge between the NPS and a vibrant community of individuals and partners who raise funds to preserve the C&O Canal, supporting programs that highlight the park’s historical, natural, and cultural heritage and recreational opportunities. For nearly 20 years, through the generosity of individuals, foundations, corporations, and community partners, the Trust has been instrumental in supporting conservation projects, infrastructure improvements, education programs, and visitor resources throughout the park. We are thrilled to share our ambitious new Strategic Plan that will guide our work for the next four years, culminating with the 200th anniversary of the C&O Canal’s beginning. This plan is built on four pillars that will strengthen our programs and expand our impact.
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