The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath is a historic trail running 184.5 miles from Cumberland, Maryland to Washington, DC . It is relatively flat and is made of crushed stone and clay. This small section of the towpath begins in Harper's Ferry. The park represents over 1,000 years of history, including the arrival of the first successful American railroad, John Brown's attack on slavery, and the largest surrender of Federal troops during the Civil War. As the trail travels to Brunswick MD, it is very scenic and offers many wildlife encounters. A parking fee is required in Harper's Ferry.