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The Little Falls Dam is the spot that separates the Upper Potomac River and Lower Potomac River. It was constructed in 1959.

Located at mile 14.3 on the C&O Canal Towpath in Potomac, Maryland, Great Falls Park is a must-visit highlight for hikers, cyclists, and history buffs alike. A short boardwalk leads to the Olmsted Island overlook, where the Potomac River dramatically crashes over jagged rocks—one of the most scenic views near D.C. For hikers, the popular Billy Goat Trail offers three segments, with Section A featuring challenging rock scrambles and breathtaking river views. The historic Great Falls Tavern, built in 1829, now serves as a visitor center and launch point for seasonal mule-drawn canal boat rides. The towpath itself is flat and easy to navigate, ideal for walking or biking. Amenities include restrooms, picnic spots, and interpretive exhibits. Parking is available at the visitor center (fee required), or you can park for free at nearby Swains Lock and walk or ride 2.5 miles to the falls.

The Little Falls Dam is the spot that separates the Upper Potomac River and Lower Potomac River. It was constructed in 1959.

The Great Falls Overlook Trail offers awesome views of the Potomac River as it roars through Mather Gorge. Accessible via the C&O Canal path, the best parking is at the Great Falls Tavern, with a large lot nearby. From Olmsted Island, there is a quarter-mile walk across bridges and boardwalks that takes hikers to the overlook. The trail, which crosses the river’s floodplain, is handicapped accessible, though dogs are not permitted. For fewer crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning, around 8 a.m.

Great Falls Park is a national park that spans 800 acres along the Potomac River. The park features 15 miles of hiking trails, some of which are open to biking and horseback riding. It shares this beautiful location with the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park across the river in Maryland. Here, on the Virginia side, the River Trail offers a similarly beautiful trek along the Potomac in Mather Gorge. An annual pass for Great Falls Park is also valid at the C&O Canal Park.

Just off the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail is a short, approximately quarter-mile footpath across bridges and the floodplain to Olmsted Island and the Great Falls Overlook. From here you get a breathtaking view of the Potomac River as it roars through Mather Gorge.

Aqueduct Dam Riverbend Park is where Riverbend Park ends and Great Falls Park starts. There is a great view of the Potomac River here. Swimming and boat launching are forbidden as they can be dangerous with the upcoming falls.

This giant maple tree stands watch over lock 26 and provides a great place to stop for a picnic while exploring the canal path.