Rare Vintage Footage From 1917 Shows You Every Part Of The C&O Canal, From Maryland To DC

Have you hiked, jogged, or bicycled along the C&O Canal? The canal is great for exploring year-round, whether you enjoy the springtime wildflowers or the colorful fall foliage in autumn. The towpath and surrounding landmarks haven't changed much in the last century -- the following video is proof. Check out this rare vintage footage that explores the towpath from beginning to end. It starts in Cumberland, Maryland and then ends in DC. There's a lot to see along the way and you'll enjoy every moment.

The C & O Canal was used to transport lumber and similar bulk commodities from the mid-1800s until 1924. The following footage was captured in 1917 and it explores the entire 184.5 miles.

The footage starts in the Cumberland, Maryland area. Along the way the filmmaker captures the many locks...

...and historic landmarks along the way. Here's the Paw Paw Tunnel, which was constructed from 1836 until 1850. You can still walk through this tunnel today...

...as shown in the footage as well. If you're visiting yourself, be sure to bring a flashlight. At 3,118-foot-long, Paw Paw Tunnel is extremely dark inside, especially as you approach the middle of the structure.

The historic footage also shows views around the Harpers Ferry area, which intersects Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.

You'll also see Great Falls in Potomac, Maryland. It looks pretty much the same today.

The footage finally ends when arriving in the DC area. It was a seven-day trip that we're glad was captured on film.

Check out the full footage below:

For more information about the C&O Canal, click here.

Speaking of Maryland history, did you know that the Old Line State was once the home of a POW Camp?