What Is Great Falls Park?
Great Falls Park protects both the historic Potowmack Canal and an impressive cataract in Mather Gorge of the Potomac River!
What Makes It Beautiful?
The colors of the falls really stood out to me more than anything else! The deep gray of the rocks and the sapphire blue of the water made me want to set up a canvas and start painting, if I only knew how to paint! The falls were even greater than I imagined they would be, and it was impressive watching some tiny kayakers doing their best to conquer them! The hike down to the river’s edge gave a great opportunity to contemplate the might of nature!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Pay the entrance fee to help maintain trails, signs, structures, and other visitor services!
- Volunteer at Great Falls Park!
- Donate to Great Falls Park!
- Be a responsible visitor! Remember the old adages: Pack out what you pack in! Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints!
How Do I Get There?
Visitor Center:
- 9200 Old Dominion Drive
McLean, VA 22102
C&O Canal Viewpoint:
- 11710 MacArthur Blvd.
Potomac MD 20854
When Should I Visit the Park?
The park is open every day from 7:00 AM until dark, and the visitor center is open from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM!