Great Falls Park River Trail and Overlooks (Virginia)

Great Falls Park is a National Park Service site on the Virginia side of the Potomac River, at 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA, about 15 miles from downtown Washington, DC. The River Trail and linked overlook paths make a loop of about 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip with roughly 150 ft (46 m) of total elevation gain, which takes one and a half to two hours. The route is considered easy, though some sections are rocky and uneven. Access is by car only. Vehicle entry costs about $20 USD and is valid for three days, and the park can be reached at +1-703-285-2965. Parking fills on fine weekends, and the entrance may close temporarily when the lots are full. From the visitor center, hikers follow paved and gravel paths to three main overlooks over the falls, where the Potomac drops about 76 feet through a series of rapids into Mather Gorge. The River Trail itself continues along the water on rocky footing with roots and boulders, passing remains of the Patowmack Canal built under George Washington's direction in the late 1700s. Shade is moderate, with open rock at the overlooks and forest elsewhere. The recommended turnaround is the third overlook for those wanting a short visit, or the end of the River Trail for the full outing. Water is available at the visitor center, picnic areas provide shelter and tables, and there is little else along the route. The park carries a serious warning: the river's currents are deadly, and swimming or wading is prohibited. Hikers should stay on marked trails and off wet rocks near the edge. Summer mornings and the cooler months suit the walk best, and the falls are most powerful after heavy rain.