The Viral Waterfall Park Everyone’s Asking About!

📍 Basic Info Located along the Potomac River, spanning 800 acres. There are two locations—one in Maryland and one in Northern Virginia. This post introduces the one at 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA, part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. 🕒 Open year-round. 🎫 Entry: $15 per vehicle, $7 per pedestrian, $10 per motorcycle. Free for seniors with a pass! 🌊 Natural Scenery 1️⃣ Waterfalls: A series of powerful falls dropping 76 ft (20 m)—the steepest and most dramatic rapids on the eastern Potomac. The river narrows from 1,000 ft to just over 100 ft near the falls! Three overlooks along the River Trail offer stunning views; two are wheelchair accessible ♿. 2️⃣ Canyon Views: Downstream from the falls, don’t miss the spectacular Mather Gorge. For a higher perspective, walk the Upper Canal Trail above the Visitor Center 🌄. 🚶‍♂️ Activities 3️⃣ Hiking: 15 miles of scenic trails through woods and along the river. Perfect for nature lovers! 4️⃣ Picnicking: Many beautiful spots to enjoy a meal with a view 🧺. 5️⃣ Kayaking: Rated Class 5-6 whitewater at the falls, calming to Class 2-3 through Mather Gorge. A popular kayaking destination since the 1960s 🚣. 6️⃣ Rock Climbing: Cliff areas offer fun challenges for climbers 🧗. 7️⃣ Biking & Horseback Riding: Explore designated trails on two wheels or on horseback 🚴🐎. 🏛️ Visitor Center 8️⃣ Offers trail maps 📍, historical exhibits, a 10-min park film 🎥, interactive kids’ area, bookstore, restrooms, and a concession stand. Friendly rangers and volunteers are there to help! ⚠️ Important Tips ❌ NO swimming or wading—currents are strong and the river is over 30 ft deep. Sadly, an average of 7 people drown here each year. Stay behind safety barriers! 🚗 Avoid summer weekends—parking can take 45+ minutes. Come early for a better experience! Perfect for a day trip—wild, beautiful, and packed with adventure less than 30 minutes from DC! 🌿 #WashingtonDC #Waterfalls #NatureEscape #GreatFallsPark #HiddenGems #DCWeekend