Great Falls Park

Activity Overview

This 800 acre park located just off the Potomac river offers breath-taking views and scenery. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.

Things to See & Do

Hiking the trails, rock scrambling and picnicking are favorite activities for kids at this park.

Picnic tables and grills are available for public use. You must bring your own charcoal and supplies.

There are beautiful waterfalls to see. The falls are absolutely breathtaking, and there are plenty of great hidden spots to relax and enjoy the view. Note: some the viewing platforms require some climbing over large rocks.

You can see evidence of old canals, enjoy the rushing Potomac River, watch the kayaks negotiate the rocky waterway and stand in awe at the high water marks from floods years ago.

Horseback riding trails are also available (you must bring your own horse).

Great Falls Park Insider Tips

There is a fee to enter the park. Annual passes are available for about $80 and are available at Great Falls Park's entrance station.
It's a short walk from the car to the views.
There is a welcome center with port-o-johns available, as well as a small bathroom with running water at the lower end of the parking area.
A snack bar is located in the Visitor Center courtyard. The snack bar is open seasonally from March through November, and offers light snacks, hot dogs, pizza, french fries, and drinks. There is also a 7/11 and gas station with food up the street from the main entrance as well.
Make sure you bring trash bags. You have to bring all your trash back with you. Its what you call a "leave no trace" park.
All picnic tables and grills are available on a first come, first serve basis. The park does not take reservations for picnic tables. There are no pavilions or covered picnic areas.
If you are planning on hiking, wear good hiking shoes and a walking stick would be helpful.