Name: Lockhouse Stay + Hike - Swains Lock to Olmsted Island (5.8 miles)
Start: 2025-12-06T11:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-12-07T10:00:00-05:00
Location: Swains Lock

Juanatán decided to try something different for his final NOVA Trailblazers event for 2025 -- a stay in a historic lockhouse! Swains Lockhouse, located by Lock 21 along the C&O Canal, is a modern lockhouse and as such has all the modern amenities such as heating, running water, a kitchen, and a shower. We'll also enjoy a relaxing stroll along the towpath during our stay.

Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling location has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning.

## **Trail Facts**

* **Difficulty Level:** Easy
* **Length:** 5.8 Miles
* **Duration:** 1.5-2.5 hrs
* **Elevation Gain:** 62 Feet
* **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers.
* **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp.
* **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry.
* **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.03135759249345, -77.24349338880081
* **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/nova-trailblazers-swains-lock-to-olmsted-island-05c7ac9?u=i&sh=kucj8c

**Trail Details:**

After arriving at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning we'll get settled and enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon hiking along the C&O Towpath. Our route will take us to Olmsted Island within Great Falls National Park with a nice overlook of the Mather Gorge. We'll then return to the lockhouse for dinner, a fire, and camaraderie before turning in for the night. The next day we'll enjoy breakfast and pack up, leaving no later than the checkout time of 10:00 AM.

The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-21/).

The cost of this experience is $60 -- $30 for your share of the rental and $30 for food. The food costs are estimated and may change once I work out a menu. Once you sign up for the event I will DM you to coordinate payment. If payment is not received within one week (or within two days within the week preceding the trip) then you will be marked as "Not Going".

I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions.

**LIABILITY NOTICE:**
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​

For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).​

See you on the trail!

**[Featured Image Source](https://visitmontgomery.com/blog/see-do/unlocking-the-charm-to-swains-lockhouse/)**

Juanatán Molinero Káiser

NOVA Trailblazers - 20s - 40s Backpacking and Hiking

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Lockhouse Stay + Hike - Swains Lock to Olmsted Island (5.8 miles)

Swains Lock

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Lockhouse Stay + Hike - Swains Lock to Olmsted Island (5.8 miles)

NOVA Trailblazers - 20s - 40s Backpacking and Hiking

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