[f. TOW v.1 + PATH.] A path by the side of a canal or navigable river for use in towing; = towing-path (TOWING vbl. sb.1 b).
1821. Hartford Courant, 7 Aug., 2/4. The tow-path on the side of the canal is about 3 feet above the level of the water, about 10 feet in width, and is made hard by gravel.
1846. Worcester, Tow-path, a narrow path travelled by horses in dragging boats along a canal. Baldwin.
1882. R. Mackenzie, America, 305. He had begun life on the tow-path as a driver of mules.
1910. Blackw. Mag., May, 634/1. The towpath was knee-deep in water.
