Paw Paw Tunnel
A nearly mile-long, hand-dug 19th-century tunnel through a mountain, offering a dark and historic adventure on the C&O Canal Towpath.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Paw Paw Tunnel
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nearly mile-long, hand-dug 19th-century tunnel through a mountain, offering a dark and historic adventure on the C&O Canal Towpath.
"It's a long tunnel with an uneven narrow walkway and no lights. Very cool looking piece of history."
🔦 Bring a Bright Flashlight
Essential for the pitch-black, nearly mile-long tunnel. Cell phone lights won't cut it!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The tunnel floor is uneven with puddles. Waterproof boots are ideal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paw Paw Tunnel
C&O Canal Towpath, Oldtown, Maryland
A 3,118-foot hand-dug tunnel through a mountain, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. It's pitch black inside!
C&O Canal Towpath
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Explore miles of historic towpath offering scenic views of the Potomac River and a glimpse into canal history.
Potomac River Views
Near Paw Paw Tunnel
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Potomac River, especially from the trail leading to and from the tunnel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Flashlight is Essential
Footwear and Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Bright Flashlight
Essential for the pitch-black, nearly mile-long tunnel. Cell phone lights won't cut it!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The tunnel floor is uneven with puddles. Waterproof boots are ideal.
📍 Check Parking Access
Multiple access points exist; some are closer to the tunnel than others.
🚲 Bike the Towpath
The C&O Canal Towpath is perfect for cycling adventures. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Bright Flashlight
Essential for the pitch-black, nearly mile-long tunnel. Cell phone lights won't cut it!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The tunnel floor is uneven with puddles. Waterproof boots are ideal.
📍 Check Parking Access
Multiple access points exist; some are closer to the tunnel than others.
🚲 Bike the Towpath
The C&O Canal Towpath is perfect for cycling adventures.
👻 Haunted History
Some visitors find the tunnel eerie and mention its haunted reputation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Paw Paw Tunnel an impressive historical site and a unique hiking experience, particularly appreciating the engineering feat. However, the complete darkness and uneven terrain inside the tunnel require careful preparation with flashlights and sturdy footwear. Some find the atmosphere eerie, while others enjoy the scenic towpath and river views.
"Nice change of pace hike. Parked at the PawPaw Tunnel Campgrounds and walked the trail to the tunnel. I hadnt realized how long the tunnel would be and at 3116 feet long it was pretty impressive. Walkway inside tunnel is very uneven and had puddles so make sure you have a flashlight of some sort and sturdy shoes on. Boardwalk on the other side was nice. Path past the boardwalk was muddy in spots but easy to go around the worst. Made it to the Sorrel Ridge Campsite before heading back. So some deer and lots of fall colors. Overall it was a nice quiet walk with only a few people, would definitely do it again"
Cyndi Williams
"An amazing short hike that was fun and beautiful. Not the easiest to find. Was told there are several ways to get there. We hiked down a small hill with switchbacks. Definitely take a flashlight to walk trough the tunnel."
Debra Graves
"This is a unique spot with a trail with a great view of the Potomac. The tunnel itself is a short walking distance from the parking lot if you are not interested in the loop trail. I highly recommend bringing a flashlight. Cell phones are fine but not as bright as a flashlight and the walking path is uneven with holes and cracks in some areas. Watch your step! There is a short boardwalk path on the other side of the tunnel. There is also a campground by the parking lot."
Michele LaSala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paw Paw Tunnel is located in Oldtown, Maryland, along the C&O Canal Towpath. There are multiple parking access points, including one near the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground. Some roads leading to the tunnel are easier to access than others.
Although the nearby town of Paw Paw is in West Virginia, the Paw Paw Tunnel itself is located in Oldtown, Maryland.
While you can drive to parking areas near the tunnel, you'll need to walk or bike the towpath to reach the entrance.
The towpath itself is primarily for walking and biking. However, there are car-accessible campgrounds and parking areas along the C&O Canal, such as the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground.
For a shorter visit, park near the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground and walk the short distance to the tunnel entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit Paw Paw Tunnel. It is part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, which is free to enter.
Paw Paw Tunnel is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
The C&O Canal National Historical Park is generally free to enter. However, fees may apply for camping or specific facilities.
There are no official guided tours of Paw Paw Tunnel. Visitors explore independently.
Visitors should be mindful of the tunnel's historical significance and natural environment. Stick to marked paths and do not litter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Paw Paw Tunnel is 3,118 feet long, which is nearly a mile.
The path inside the tunnel is very uneven, with holes and cracks, and is often damp with puddles. A flashlight is essential.
With a good flashlight and sturdy shoes, it is generally safe. However, the uneven terrain requires careful footing. Some visitors find it eerie.
On the other side of the tunnel, there is a short boardwalk path. You can continue on the C&O Canal Towpath for a longer hike.
Children can visit, but they must be closely supervised due to the uneven terrain and darkness. Ensure they have appropriate footwear and a flashlight.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the imposing entrance of the tunnel, the dark interior (with flash!), and the scenic views of the Potomac River from the towpath.
It's challenging due to the complete darkness. A strong flashlight is needed to illuminate the path and your subject. Long exposure shots might capture the tunnel's atmosphere.
A camera with good low-light performance and a powerful external flash or sturdy tripod for longer exposures would be beneficial. Don't forget your flashlight!
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.
You can use your phone, but the built-in flash is often insufficient. Consider bringing a portable LED light for better results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the length of the tunnel for younger children; it's a significant distance in the dark. You can opt for a shorter walk to the tunnel entrance and back, or commit to the full traverse. The C&O Canal Towpath offers a more straightforward walking or biking experience for families who prefer to stay in the light.
🚴 Cyclists and Bikepackers
+1Be prepared to push your bike through the tunnel, as riding on the uneven, dark, and potentially wet path can be challenging and unsafe. Cyclists should also be mindful of other users on the towpath, especially on the bridge leading to the tunnel.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Hikers can explore the tunnel itself, but remember to bring a flashlight and wear appropriate footwear. For a longer hike, continue along the towpath past the tunnel, where you might encounter campsites and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Paw Paw Tunnel
Visitors today can walk through this historic passage, experiencing firsthand the scale of the excavation. The nearly mile-long tunnel is a stark reminder of the labor and ingenuity involved. While the towpath inside is now uneven and often damp, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with a pivotal piece of American industrial history.
Beyond the tunnel itself, the surrounding C&O Canal National Historical Park offers a rich historical landscape. The towpath, once used by mules to pull canal boats, now serves as a popular recreational trail for hikers, bikers, and history enthusiasts. Exploring this area provides a comprehensive understanding of the canal's importance in the region's development.
Navigating the Darkness: Tips for Your Tunnel Experience
Footwear is another critical consideration. The uneven terrain inside the tunnel can be slippery and treacherous. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good grip are highly advised to prevent slips and ensure comfort. Be prepared for potential puddles and damp conditions.
While the main towpath is generally safe, some reviewers caution about potential hazards like sharp cliffs if one strays from the marked path. Always stay on the designated trail and be aware of your surroundings. The experience, though dark, is described as unique and memorable by many who have traversed it.
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