The "great falls" of the Potomac are only 25 meters high, but there is a lot of water flowing - impressive. The craggy rock formation of the falls consists of shale and very hard graywacke. Viewing platforms offer beautiful views and in the grounds of the state park you can still learn something about the history of the place. As early as 1800, a bypass canal was built to be part of a shipping route across the Appalachians.

Andreas

May 6, 2022

Hiking

Really impressive nature. Access is $20 per car or $10 per pedestrian.

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Andreas

May 6, 2022

Hiking

This vantage point is barrier-free. Great view of the falls.

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Routes here

Best routes to Great Falls Overlook 1

5.0

(20)

132

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1. Upper Potomac River Trail loop — Great Falls Park

8.64km

02:19

110m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.5

(8)

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2. Great Falls Overlook 2 via the Patomac Heritage Trail — Great Falls

5.75km

01:27

10m

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

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Easy

5.0

(5)

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3. Matildaville Trail & River Trail loop — Great Falls Park

5.73km

01:33

80m

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

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 40 m

Weather

Sunday 15 February

9°C

1°C

-- %

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

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Rocky River Section, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Purplehorse Beach and Mixed Rock Formations

River Trail (Mather Gorge), Great Falls Park

Great Falls Overlook

Swains Lock

Lock 15 and View of the Potomac River

Start of the Great Falls Foot Trail

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath at Blockhouse Point Park

Great Falls Overlook 1

1. Upper Potomac River Trail loop — Great Falls Park

2. Great Falls Overlook 2 via the Patomac Heritage Trail — Great Falls

3. Matildaville Trail & River Trail loop — Great Falls Park

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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