Lockhouse Stay - Pennyfield Lock to Seneca Quarry / Swains Lock (14.2 miles)

Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park durig our visit.

Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot 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: Moderate
• Length: 14.2 Miles
• Duration: 4.5-5.5 hrs
• Elevation Gain: 506 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: 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912
• AllTrails Maps:
• https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c
• https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c

Trail Details:

We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse.

Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse.

Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed.

The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 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.

Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :)

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

Saturday Itinerary:

• 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking.
• 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc.
• 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back.
• 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed.

Sunday Itinerary:

• Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM.

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.​

If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the US Forest Service.​

See you on the trail!

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