Location – Point of Rocks
Mile Marker – 48
Historical Comments – Point of Rocks is one of the sites where the B&O Railroad and the C&O Canal fought over the right away as the pass between the river and the cliffs were very narrow. They eventually reached a compromise that also saw a wall erected between the rail line and the canal towpaths so that the mules pulling the barges would not be frightened.
During the Civil War, the town, canal and railroad made tempting targets for the confederates operating in Virginia. The rail station, still in use, was built in 1876. Find out more about this stop at the C&O Canal Trust website.
Ride to Site – This stop on the canal is located just off of and even under US Route 15. The trains at this location run often so be alert for the oncoming locomotives.
Amenities – picnic tables, boat ramp, restrooms, parking. Nearby gas and food.
Road Conditions (from main road) – Paved but with pot holes.
Railway Situation – Ground level
Parking Lot Conditions – Paved.
Main Attraction – Boat ramp, Route 15 bridge for pictures, rail station for pictures, Lock House 28 is available for lodging on the canal but you would have to park the motorcycles about a mile away.
My Thoughts – Great site for pictures and a nice stop when riding in the area.
- Rail Crossing at Point of Rocks
- Point of Rock parking lot
Great photos. Looks like it was a beautiful ride.
[…] My Thoughts – The canal site itself is interesting. After crossing the river you can, at the traffic light, turn left and head into Leesburg or turn right and head back towards Point of Rocks, MD (another stop on the canal tour). […]