The best walks and hikes around Fairplay
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23
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6
hikes
Hiking around Fairplay, Colorado, offers access to high-altitude landscapes and mountain environments. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Mosquito Range and expansive forests, providing diverse terrain for outdoor activities. Trails often feature significant elevation changes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Best hiking trails around Fairplay
- The most popular hiking route is Snavely Ford Antietam National Battlefield Trail, an 11.3 miles (18.3 km) trail that takes 4 hours 50 minutes to complete. This moderate route…
Last updated: June 21, 2026
1
hikers
18.3km
04:49
160m
190m
The Snavely Ford Antietam National Battlefield Trail offers a moderate 11.3-mile hike through historic battlefields and along Antietam Creek
11.6km
02:58
40m
30m
Hike 7.2 miles along the historic C&O Canal Towpath from Taylors Landing to McMahon's Mill, enjoying river views and historic locks.
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1.67km
00:25
10m
0m
This easy 1.0-mile hike on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath offers historical structures and Potomac River views.
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6
hikers
7.81km
02:03
70m
70m
The East Woods – The West Woods loop from Sharpsburg offers a unique opportunity to walk through pivotal American history, combining the natural beauty of forested areas with the solemnity…
5
hikers
8.27km
02:13
100m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Fairplay
Tips from the Community
A paved elevated boardwalk stretches out along the water, giving you a fantastic view of the Potomac River. This spot can get pretty popular on summer weekends.
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Dam No. 4 is located around mile 84 of the C&O Canal Towpath. Built in 1856, this dam was crucial for maintaining water levels for canal operations and remains an impressive structure along the river. The area around the dam is known for its scenic views and wildlife.
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Dam No. 4 is located around mile 84 of the C&O Canal Towpath. Built in 1856, this dam was crucial for maintaining water levels for canal operations and remains an impressive structure along the river. The area around the dam is known for its scenic views and wildlife, making it a nice spot to pause before continuing on your ride.
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From this spot near McMahon’s Mill, you get great views of Big Slackwater. McMahon’s Mill used a steel wheel in the early 20th century to generate electricity. The mill closed in 1922 after a flood but was later restored by the National Park Service. Downstream from McMahon’s Mill, Big Slackwater marks where canal boats entered the Potomac River, avoiding the rocky cliffs by using pools behind Dam 4 and Dam 5. In 1996, flooding damaged the towpath, making this section impassable for over 15 years. Reconstruction began in 2010, and by 2012, the missing towpath section was restored, allowing visitors to travel the entire 184.5 miles of the C&O Canal once again.
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Big Slackwater is a deep, smooth area of the C&O canal. It is the place that canal boats used to be launched into the canal. After a flood destroyed the canal path in 1996, a rasied canal path was reconstructed in 2012. It is now open to the public.
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Ride in the morning or weekday, if possible. can get busy on weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Fairplay?
There are 6 hiking routes detailed in this guide for the Fairplay area. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy riverside strolls to moderate treks through historical landscapes.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners?
Yes, there is one easy route available. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is a 1.7 km (1.0 mile) trail that takes approximately 25 minutes to complete, offering pleasant riverside scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in this area?
The hiking routes in this guide feature varied terrain, including flat canal paths, historical battlefields, and forested sections. You'll find options ranging from gentle, waterside walks to trails with moderate elevation changes.
Are there any circular hiking routes?
Yes, there are circular routes available. For example, The East Woods – The West Woods loop from Sharpsburg is a moderate 7.8 km (4.8 mile) loop, and the Georgians Overlook loop from Sharpsburg is another moderate 8.3 km (5.2 mile) option.
What can I see along the hiking trails?
Many trails offer historical points of interest and scenic views. For instance, the Snavely Ford Antietam National Battlefield Trail features historical sites. Other routes follow historic canals, providing waterside views.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions nearby?
Yes, the area is rich in historical and natural points of interest. You can explore the Antietam National Battlefield, visit the historic town of Sharpsburg, or enjoy views of the Potomac River from the Shepherdstown Bridge. There's also Dam No. 4, a notable man-made monument.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in this region?
The routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, which includes canal paths, historical battlefields, and forested sections, offering diverse experiences for different ability levels.
Are there any trails that follow a canal?
Yes, several trails utilize the historic canal system. The Taylors Landing to McMahon's Mill via C and O Canal Trail is a moderate 11.6 km (7.2 mile) path that follows a historic canal, offering flat terrain and waterside views. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is another option.
What is the longest hike available in this guide?
The longest hike featured is the Snavely Ford Antietam National Battlefield Trail, which spans 18.3 km (11.3 miles) and typically takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete. It's a moderate route with historical points of interest.
Are there any trails suitable for a shorter walk?
For a shorter walk, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath is an excellent choice. It's an easy 1.7 km (1.0 mile) trail that can be completed in about 25 minutes, offering pleasant riverside scenery.
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