Topic starter
15/08/2006 8:49 pm
Does anyone know the current status of seeing the boats lock through? I am wondering if I can see the "Belle" lock through at Markland - or are the observation areas off-limits to the public these days...?
16/08/2006 3:35 am
Observation areas at locks
Keith,
It's been several months since I was that far up the Ohio and caught Markland. However, I believe they do have a good observation area on the land wall at the upper end (this would be on the small lock, or land side, above the upper gates). You would be able to see the BELLE after she was raised up, and would have a great view as she departed the lock upbound. There is also a bridge over Markland Dam. I don't know what the policy is for pedestrians there, or for stopping on the bridge.
I don't know what their visitor policy is at Markland. From what I have seen post-9/11, it is up to the district offices to set visitor policy, and it differs in each district. It sometimes even differs from lock to lock, depending on the lockmaster and the operators. It never hurts to ask for permission to do something you might think would not be allowed....all they can do is say "no".
16/08/2006 9:25 am
Here at McGallopin' Lock a new museum/observation area is partially built for visitors. As far as I know it is available to the public.
16/08/2006 12:58 pm
Keith, As of Saturday afternoon August 12th Markland's viewing tower was open. There were plenty of visitors to see the DELTA QUEEN on her upbound trip to Cincinnati.
Topic starter
16/08/2006 4:00 pm
Very good! Thanks, everyone, for the updates.
Topic starter
18/08/2006 3:13 pm
I just called up to Markland and the kind lady there told me that the observation area is indeed open to the public as a matter of normal business.