As we search for legitimacy in a world where we put a shiny veneer on everything we do, it’s a relief to go out in nature. In nature, a tree is just a tree. A rhododendron is just as concerned with “how it looks” this season as a fox is concerned with the differential equations in effect as it pounces on a rabbit. On the trail, you can let your hair down, your guard down a little, and yes, you smell a little more frowsty than is usually acceptable.

Millions of people visit the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park each year, and a large portion of them love to come and hike near Great Falls Tavern. There are 3 sections that make up the Billy Goat Trail: A, B, and C. You can access all three of them off the towpath between Great Falls Tavern and Carderock (Anglers is between section A and B). All three combined are approximately 8 miles. Section A is a technical and strenuous hike. Section B is challenging, and Section C is a fairly easy hike. All three have beautiful scenery and views of the Potomac River- and spotty cell service.

It’s December, and winter is only days away. Snow may be sparse at this point, but it’s only a matter of time. You morosely put away your riding gear and bring out the ear muffs for your runs… but wait! There is so much that the C&O Canal offers during the winter that you might not know about! To commemorate the C&O Canal Trust’s 10th Anniversary in 2017, we bring you 10 of our favorite things to do along the C&O Canal in the winter.

The Cushwa Basin, located in Williamsport, MD, is situated at the confluence of the Conococheague Creek and the Potomac River. Stop by the Visitors Center and watch two short films including a 1917 silent film (this was before the advent of “talkies”) set along the Canal produced by the Edison Company. This film has great footage of Paw Paw Tunnel, lock operations, and life of those on the Canal. Inside the Williamsport Visitor Center you will also find an information desk, a gift shop, and several small exhibits. Displays include a topographical map of the canal, an antique desk used by Cushwa’s management while in operation, and the old Cushwa warehouse.

It was hot in the open-door falafel shop. The shop had been recommended by locals, so shock greeted me at the door when I saw an Irishman behind the counter. He had dark red hair cropped short and fair skin lightly splattered with freckles. He greeted us in Arabic, and wore an emerald-green shirt emblazoned with the word “CALIFORNIA.”