Existing comment:
Walk in the footsteps of Union Soldiers.
Trail Guide:
(1) Here Old River Road joins with the Blockhouse Trail. This trail was the original military road used by troops heading to the blockhouse and camp.
(2) On your left, just past the bridge and at the base of the hill, are the springs used by the troops as a water supply. Continue uphill.
(3) Turn left at top of hill. Follow this trail to intersection with the Turkey Fan Trail.
(4) Turn right at intersection and follow trail to overlook.
(5) From overlooks like this, Union sentries kept watch for any Confederate movements across the river or at area fords.
To get a closer look at the C & O Canal and the area of one of the Camps at Muddy Branch retrace your steps to your car. Drive south on River Road and turn right at Pennyfield Lock Road and follow to end.
(6) Turn right at end of road. This is the location of a Camp at Muddy Branch and a sentry post guarding the culvert.
(7) To see Pennyfield Lock and Lockhouse (owned by the National Park Service), follow the road along the canal. |