Last updated: September 9, 2021
Place
C&O Canal Lock 23 (Violettes Lock)
![The towpath wonders toward a two chamber lock, one chamber on the right the other on the left.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/FAEA5C60-C655-9B4B-DD1D6634E47F101E.jpg?width=1600&quality=90&mode=crop)
Paul Graunke
Quick Facts
Amenities
5 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Parking - Boat Trailer, Picnic Table, Toilet - Vault/Composting
Along the 184.5 miles of the canal are 74 lift locks. These locks were put into place to help boats overcome the 605-foot elevation change between Georgetown and Cumberland. The C&O Canal is like a staircase, canal boats traveled along the flat sections and used the locks to take a “step up or down” about eight feet. The locks typically had hand-operated miter gates that were simple and followed Leonardo da Vinci’s original 1485 design. Entering the lock was the most demanding part of canalling. |
Lock 23 is also known as Violettes Lock. |