Photo by Paul Graunke
The year 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the C&O Canal National Historical Park joining the National Park Service system. The C&O Canal National Historical Park preserves and interprets the 19th-century transportation canal from Washington, DC, to Cumberland, Maryland, and its associated scenic, natural, and cultural resources. It also provides visitors with a wealth of opportunities for education and outdoor recreation along its 184.5 miles and 20,000 acres.
The next 50 years could be the most critical in the Park’s history. Make a gift today to the C&O Canal Trust’s Next 50 Years Campaign, and join us in supporting, protecting, and preserving one of the most visited spaces in the national park system.
Recent 50th Anniversary News
September 12, 2021: Trust Raises Over $150,000 at Picnic in the Park
March 1, 2021: C&O Canal Trust Announces Creation of Apparel Line in Partnership with Maryland-Based Route One Apparel
February 10, 2021: C&O Canal Photo Competition Announced, See Call for Photographers
February 3, 2021: Eleven Local Breweries Release C&O Canal-Themed Beers to Kick Off Libations Trail in Celebration of the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s 50th Anniversary
Plan Your Visit
Access an interactive map, itineraries and trip ideas, and a mobile app to help you plan your visit to the C&O Canal.
Next 50 Years Campaign
Help ensure that, like us, future generations experience a safe, beautiful, and welcoming C&O Canal National Historical Park.
Canal Stories
Everyone has a story about the C&O Canal. For our 50th anniversary, we take a look at 50 of them. What is yours? Tell us at #MyCanalStory.
C&O Canal Experience
No visit to the C&O Canal is complete without exploring the museums, breweries, wineries, farms, shops, and restaurants in and around the towpath.
50th Anniversary Events
A variety of events are scheduled for the C&O Canal’s anniversary year.
Deals and Special Offers
Our partners have created special offers and deals for C&O Canal visitors – check them out!
Trip Ideas for Your C&O Canal Visit
Other Ways to Get Involved
Support the C&O Canal
The C&O Canal Trust raises money to help preserve and protect the C&O Canal for future generations. Learn how you can help!
Volunteer
We depend on volunteers to help us preserve and beautify the 20,000 acres of the C&O Canal. Learn how you can help!
Enter Our Photo Contest
Send us your best shots of the C&O Canal and earn fame as the winner of our monthly photo contest.
