Hiking America ADT Trail Update: DC Towpath Detour & Hiker Highlights
Updated C&O Canal detour maps available for ADT hikers! New route bypasses lock construction areas while welcoming Kolten to the 2025 thru-hiker class.
Great news for our American Discovery Trail community! ⛰️ We've just updated our maps and routes to include an important detour for the first 5 miles of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath trail in Washington, DC.
Towpath Closure Alert 🚧
Due to major lock reconstruction work, several sections of the C&O Towpath are currently closed to hikers through winter 2025-2026. No worries, though - we've created a comprehensive detour route that bypasses all closed areas while keeping you on track for your adventure.
This updated route is now available to all Hiking America subscribers on Gaia GPS.
Additionally, we've removed the C&O Canal log wall detour as the towpath has been reopened in that section. The canal walls that were previously eroding have been shored up, making this stretch accessible once again! 🎉
ADT Hiker Spotlights🌲
Kolten
Westbound
Began: February 26, 2024
Support Links: ImHikingAmerica, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Venmo
We're excited to welcome our newest thru-hiker to the ADT Class of 2025 - Kolton! He's bringing a uniquely fun energy to the ADT community by traveling with a Sasquatch costume, which makes regular appearances for photo ops along the trail.
Keep an eye out for these hilarious trail markers on his social feeds!
Special congratulations to SaunterinSteve, who just crossed into West Virginia today, completing the first two states of his westbound ADT journey in less than a month! Impressive progress, Steve! 👏
Trail Encounters ☀️
Rhiis & Sara
Westbound - Southern Route
Began: February 21, 2025
Support Links: ImHikingAmerica, TrailJournals, YouTube, Venmo
We had the pleasure of spending an hour with thru-hikers Rhiis and Sara near Great Falls Tavern this week. Just a seasonal note for current hikers - at this time of year, the Tavern facilities are limited to restrooms only, with the visitor services closed until mid-April.
Hike Your Hike - John.
