Hiking:
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath
Description:
This is the granddaddy of all the converted rail trails. This path combines history, nature and recreation beautifully. Hikes can be done along the historic Potomac River. There are 184 miles of trail with views of and access to the C&O canal along the whole distance. At some locations, there are side hikes off the main trail to points of interest. Trail Map
Directions:
The C & O Canal Towpath is located along the northern boundary of West Virginia's eastern panhandle. The western terminus of the trail is in Cumberland, MD (Google directions below). Other trailheads near WV are along SR 51 in Maryland (all the way to Paw Paw), at Green Ridge State Forest (Little Orleans), at Hancock (MD), at Williamsport, MD and near Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry, WV. (see map on web site below).
Activities:
Hiking, Bicycling, Fishing, Canoeing, Camping
Address:
C&O Canal NHP Headquarters, 1850 Dual Highway, Suite 100, Hagerstown, MD 21740-6620
Phone/Email:
301-739-4200