The River Trail is a 1.5-mile, trail that follows the Potomac River along cliff tops, offering great views of Mather Gorge. The cliffs range from 25 to 75 feet in height, and hikers may spot vultures or great blue herons. Some sections require rock scrambling, especially between the Canal Cut and Cow Hoof Rock. This trail can be dangerous in wet conditions, as lichen and sand can make the rocky areas slippery. After heavy rain, parts of the trail flood, and in winter, they can become icy.

☮️🕊🌍 - Stefan Z

August 8, 2022

Hiking

Very nice trail, that always give views of the river.

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Nearby routes

Best routes near River Trail

4.9

(21)

133

hikers

#1.

River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trail

8.64km

02:19

110m

Hike the moderate 5.4-mile River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trail in Great Falls Park, featuring river views, forests, and wetlands.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

5.0

(5)

hikers

#2.

River Trail and Matildaville Trail Loop

5.73km

01:33

80m

Hike the 3.6-mile River Trail and Matildaville Trail Loop in Great Falls Park, exploring river views and historical ruins.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

5.0

(3)

hikers

#3.

Great Falls Overlook 1 – Viewpoint - Great Falls loop from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

4.20km

01:06

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

Details

Informations

Distance 773 m

Uphill 0 m

Downhill 10 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 29 March

16°C

-1°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Great Falls, Fairfax County, Virginia, United States

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Great Falls Overlook

Lock 15 and View of the Potomac River

Start of the Great Falls Foot Trail

Matildaville Ruins

Aqueduct Dam on the Potomac River

Widewater

Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls

Lock 15 – great view near the Great Falls

River Trail

#1.

River, Ridge, CCT, and Swamp Trail

#2.

River Trail and Matildaville Trail Loop

#3.

Great Falls Overlook 1 – Viewpoint - Great Falls loop from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Sign up or log in to keep exploring this route

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️