Summary of Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park, an 800-acre park located along the Potomac River, stands as one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The natural beauty of Great Falls is unmatched, featuring a series of steep, jagged rocks that flow through the narrow Mather Gorge. Its close proximity to downtown Washington, DC makes it a prime destination, popular among both local residents and tourists. The park features two locations: one in Maryland and the other in Northern Virginia. It is important to note that there is no access between the two sides of the Potomac River; each location offers stunning views of the river.
Great Falls Park provides a variety of recreational activities, which include:
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Kayaking
- Rock climbing
- Bicycling
- Horseback riding
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the falls from numerous observation areas as they cascade into 20-foot waterfalls, showcasing the steepest fall line rapids of any eastern river.
Great Falls Park: Maryland Location
The Maryland side of Great Falls is a part of the C & O Canal National Historic Park and is located off of Falls Road in Potomac. There are two overlooks near the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center:
- The Washington Aqueduct Observation Deck offers a view of the upper falls.
- Olmsted Island Bridges present several scenic views of the Great Falls.
Several hiking trails meander through this area, with the Billy Goat Trail providing some of the most spectacular close-up views. It is worth noting that portions of this trail can be very challenging and may not be suitable for all visitors. The C & O Canal Towpath also runs through the park, making it ideal for biking and jogging. The Great Falls Tavern, built in 1828, serves as the visitor center, offering historical exhibits and interpretive programs. Mule-drawn canal boat rides depart from this location from April to October, and the Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Days).
Great Falls Park: Virginia Location
This park is situated at 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, Virginia, in the northern part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Visitors can access three overlooks that provide different perspectives of the Great Falls:
- Overlook 1 offers the closest view.
- Overlooks 2 and 3 are wheelchair accessible.
Travel along the River Trail, which begins just downstream of the falls, and you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Mather Gorge. Above the Visitor Center, hiking the upper Canal Trail allows you to see the head of the falls and the Aqueduct Dam. The Virginian location features 15 miles of hiking trails through both wooded areas and along the falls.
The Great Falls Park Visitor Center provides trail maps, historical exhibits, a 10-minute video presentation on the history of Great Falls Park, an interactive children’s room, restrooms, and a concession stand. Furthermore, volunteers and park rangers are available to answer any inquiries. The Visitor Center operates daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Ranger Talks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Ranger Program Area near Overlook 3.
Park Hours
Both locations of Great Falls Park are open daily from 7 a.m. until dark, with the exception of December 25th.
Admission
The entrance fee for the year 2019 is $15 per vehicle, which includes motorcycles, and a $7 fee for visitors entering the park on foot, horseback, or bicycle. This admission fee is valid for three days at both parks.
Visiting Tips
- Weekend afternoons are the busiest times to visit. To avoid crowds, consider going early, late in the day, or on a weekday.
- Always stay on the trails and exercise caution while hiking near the river and cliffs. It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes and carry drinking water.
- Plan to visit on a clear day and bring a camera to capture stunning nature photos.
- While dogs and other pets are permitted, they must remain on a six-foot leash at all times.
- Snack bars operate seasonally. Picnicking is allowed, and grills are available in some areas.
