Unlike traditional Geocaching, where people search for hidden physical containers that can degrade the Park’s natural resources and disrupt sensitive ecosystems, EarthCaching allows you to explore the Canal and the Great Falls while protecting the Park and leaving no trace. You will use GPS to locate and answer clues about the unique historical and natural resources you’ll find on the Park’s informational waysides. Get ready to begin your trek along the Canal’s towpath just like those before you who traveled to visit the Great Falls or worked along the Canal in the 19th century. What You’ll Need: A smartphone with GPS and pencil or pen Reminders: Make sure to Leave No Trace by staying on Park trails at ALL times. Your clues are all accessible from the Park’s sidewalk, towpath, and boardwalk. Type the GPS coordinates into any map app’s search bar on your phone. 1. Welcome to Great FallsGPS Coordinates: 39.0011, -77.2476How many locks were required to get canal boats past the Great Falls? What are some of the reasons you visit the C&O Canal? 2. Boats Passing ByGPS Coordinates: 39.0001, -77.2484Besides coal, what else do you think boats might have carried down the Canal in the 1800s? 3. Great Falls TavernGPS Coordinates: 39.0007, -77.2481What did the Great Falls Tavern start out as? 4. Creating a National ParkGPS Coordinates: 38.9997, -77.2485What are some small ways that you can follow in William O. Douglas’ footsteps and help protect the C&O Canal for everyone to enjoy? 5. A Geological BarrierGPS Coordinates: 38.9843, -77.2715How does the current level of the Potomac River differ from its level before the Ice Age? 6. Creatures UnderfootGPS Coordinates: 38.9811, -77.2763What is one way we harm this habitat if we walk through it? Making sure that you only walk on marked trails is one way that you can Leave No Trace. What is something else you can do to make sure that you Leave No Trace in the Park? 7. Stopping FloodsGPS Coordinates: 38.9811, -77.2763What canal structure helps fight against floods? 8. Maryland’s Natural HeritageGPS Coordinates: 38.9966, -77.2493What intermixes here on Olmsted Island? How can you protect the diverse plant and animal communities found here on Olmsted Island? 10. The Canal BuildersGPS Coordinates: 39.0003, -77.2481What two countries did most of the Canal workers come from? Would you have left your home and family behind in Europe to go work on the Canal? Why or why not? Congratulations!You’ve finished your Towpath Trek. Click on image to receive your C&O Canal NHP Virtual Passport Stamp. |
Last updated: February 22, 2021