--- PAW PAW TUNNEL ---

The shortest distant between two points is a straight line. So was the reasoning of the engineers who sough to avoid the cliffs and loops in the Potomac River and save five miles of towpath construction. The problem was a small mountain between the two points. The result is the Paw Paw Tunnel, an engineering marvel of the day, and marvelous walk today.

It is one of the best kept secrets of the C&O Canal, located at mile 156 of the Canal off of Md 51,a scenic drive east from Cumberland. The entrance to the parking area is on the left, shortly before the Potomac River.

The walk is 20 minutes (one way) on the boardwalk used by mules to pull canal boats. Bring a flashlight, or be adventurous and follow “the light at the end of the tunnel”. You will have a clear sense of being under a mountain as you walk the 3,118 feet of tunnel. The arch is lined with approximately 6 million bricks in 7 to 11 layers. Hear the echoes of the dripping water. Look at the rope burns on the railing. The tunnel is a reminder of the hardships and growing pains of our developing nation.

For those who want more than a walk, try the Tunnel Hill Trail, (2 miles) which leads over the tunnel ridge, offering good views of the river and the tunnel gorge. This trail and the tunnel are not recommended for wheel chairs.

Contact: National Park Service 301-739-4200.