Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? Sign In

Brands

Maryland Trails

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park: Swains Lock to Great Falls

This storied trail used to be all work; now it's all play for hikers and bikers interested in historic buildings and DC's most famous waterfall.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Trail Facts

  • Distance: 4.9

Waypoints

SWG001

Location: 39.03125, -77.2435607910156

Go L across C&O Canal footbridge and head S on C&O Trail past Lock Keeper’s House and boat launch. This waterway was once the transit line for coal, lumber, and grain

SWG002

Location: 39.0286712646484, -77.2417831420898

Peer through the trees to the placid waters of the Potomac River on R

SWG003

Location: 39.0230102539062, -77.2375411987305

Pump station feeds a reservoir that serves as the Capital’s water cache

SWG004

Location: 39.0190086364746, -77.2377700805664

Continue S; the masonry of the canal stretches ahead

SWG005

Location: 39.0096702575684, -77.2431106567383

Mile 15 marker (noting distance from start in DC)

SWG006

Location: 39.006763458252, -77.2448501586914

Light runoff of Limekiln Branch comes in from the E

SWG007

Location: 39.0010108947754, -77.2487564086914

Keep straight @ bridge to Great Falls Tavern across canal lock 20; pass the Great Falls Tavern, long a DC landmark spared damage during Civil War-era skirmishes and once a lively saloon/hotel for canalgoers

SWG008

Location: 38.9985504150391, -77.2481994628906

Canal Boat and Lock 19

SWG009

Location: 38.9966812133789, -77.2482299804688

Turn R @ 3-way for Great Falls Overlook Trail

SWG010

Location: 38.9967384338379, -77.251953125

Olmstead Island gives a bird’s-eye view of jagged bedrock @ Great Falls, a series of several cascades. More: Download other dayhikes along the canal at backpacker.com/hikes

How to Pack for Backcountry Skiing

Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack.

Keywords: