Olmsted Island Overlook — Local services in Potomac

The Park offers hikers and walkers a great retreat from daily noise filled DC downtown and I-495 delays . The enter acne fee has changed over the years gradually going up from $3 to 5 and now 10. What's really annoying is after 5 the entry to the park is free but the attendant charged us $10 after 6:30 PM . The Billy goat trail and scenic views from Olmsted Island are worth the effort to drive down but $10 after dark, not too sure...

It's a bit of a hike but the scenic overlook at the end of the trail is extremely impressive. When you arrive You'll be treated to an incredible view of Great Falls.

If you're in to photography be sure to bring a wide-angle lens because there's a lot of scenery to fit in to your shots.

Year around it's breathtaking but if you ask me it looks the best during the fall when the leaves take on a whole...

I'm lucky enough to live 5 miles from Great Falls Park. The walkway to Olmstead Island crosses over two pedestrian bridges where, on occasion, you will see kayakers descending these lesser paddled channels. If you want to see kayakers paddling the MD or VA lines, it's generally in the early morning, more often the VA lines, which are visible from the observation decks in Great Falls...