If you have tried this self-guided opportunity, please share your opinions with us. From I-68 in Cumberland take the Industrial Boulevard Exit 43 B. Follow Industrial Boulevard to Route 51 south. Follow Route 51 south to Oldtown.
Parking is available.
This section of the canal runs through the Ridge and Valley Province in Maryland. Originally created to operate as a conduit of eastern coal, the construction for the canal began in 1828 and was completed in 1850. The canal was still eight years from completion when the first railroad locomotive arrived here in 1842. The canal played a big part in the Industrial Revolution providing a water-based highway for commercial trade. The railroad became a quicker, more efficient mode of transportation.