The Waterfall Park Everyone’s Asking About on Social Media!!! 🌊😍

Great Falls Park 📍 Location: Stretching along the Potomac River, this 800-acre park has two entrances—one in Maryland, and another in Northern Virginia. This post covers the Virginia side at 9200 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, located north of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. 🕒 Open: Year-round. 🎫 Admission: 15 per vehicle, half-price for pedestrians, 10 for motorcycles. Free entry for seniors with a valid pass! Natural Scenery 1️⃣ Waterfalls: Great Falls features a series of rapids and falls with a total drop of 76 feet (about 20 meters)—the steepest falls on the Potomac River in the Eastern U.S.! As the river narrows from 1,000 feet wide to just over 100 feet, the view is breathtaking. There are three overlooks along the river trail—two are wheelchair-accessible. 🌄 2️⃣ Canyon Views: Downstream from the falls, you can admire Mather Gorge’s stunning scenery. Above the visitor center, the upper canal trail offers views of the falls and the head of the waterway dam. Activities 3️⃣ Hiking: 15 miles of trails wind through woods and along the falls—perfect for immersing yourself in nature. 🥾 4️⃣ Picnicking: Many scenic spots are ideal for a picnic! 🧺 5️⃣ Kayaking: Rated Class 5–6 whitewater above the falls, and Class 2–3 through Mather Gorge below. A popular kayaking route since the 1960s! 🚣♂️ 6️⃣ Rock Climbing: The park’s rocky terrain attracts climbers. 🧗♀️ 7️⃣ Biking & Horseback Riding: Explore parts of the park on two wheels or on horseback! 🚴♀️🐎 8️⃣ Visitor Center: Offers trail maps, historical exhibits, a 10-minute film on the park’s history, a kids’ interactive room, a bookstore, restrooms, and a concession stand. Volunteers and rangers are available to answer questions! 🏞️ Important Tips 🌸 • Safety First: The river is over 30 feet deep with strong currents—swimming and wading are prohibited. Sadly, an average of seven people drown here each year. Always stay within safe zones! ⚠️ • Avoid Crowds: On summer weekends, the park gets very busy—parking can take 45+ minutes. Arrive early to enjoy a more peaceful experience! Have you been to Great Falls Park? Which trail or overlook is your favorite? Share your tips below! 👇💬 #WashingtonDC #Waterfalls #NatureEscapes #ScenicSpots #DCArea #DayTrip #HiddenGems #SummerRetreat #OutdoorAdventure #HikingTrails