Beware of top-roped climbers and keep an eye out for kayakers playing in the tremendous standing waves of the gorge below. After a mile or so, you will cross the lower end of the old canal as it drops to the river in a very deep, gunpowder-carved gorge. Further on you will cross to a paved path leading down to a boat ramp on the river. By following the paved path, you will pass through an old quarry and then have the options of a level horse path or a rockier hiking trail back to the visitor's center. The hiking trail leads to the ruins of Mathildaville, a town assocciated with the old canal and still evident in some places.
Interpretive signs help the unimaginative.
For those wishing a longer hike, continue along the riverside after the boat launch. You will pass over Cow Hoof Rock, a conical rock with a decent view of the river, and eventually to the mouth of Difficult Run, a picturesque stream falling through many cascades and pools. On the Maryland side of the river, a good 4-5 mile hike can be had on the Billygoat Trail. This trail starts at a parking lot adjacent to the Old Angler's Inn. Two miles of rough up and down follow with good views of the river.