Great Falls VA
Great Falls Park is found in Great Falls in Fairfax County. It is about 15 miles from Washington D.C. This beautiful and mesmerizing park has one of the nation's first canals, the Great Falls of the Potomac. It also has hiking trails along Mather Gorge's scenic cliff tops. One of the most admired attractions of the park is the Great Falls of the Potomac River. Here, the rushing water is forced over steps of jagged rocks.
The park remains open from 7 a.m. to 7.30 p.m., every day. The cost of a Great Falls Park Vehicle Permit is $10 which admits one private, single and non-commercial vehicle including its passengers. Entrance fee of the park foot, bicycle, or horse is $5. Given below are some tips to fully enjoy your Great Falls Park experience.
Hiking
There are 15 miles of hiking trails in Great Falls Park. Five of these trails are multi-use for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The hikers should carry water with them especially in warmer months. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail runs throughout the park and includes biking, boating, and hiking routes throughout the Potomac watershed.
Connect With A Ranger
One of the best ways to get to know the Great Falls Park is to find and connect with a Ranger. It is best to attend one of their ongoing programs. The educational programs led by rangers are best to explore the park for scout groups, school groups, and more.
Horse Riding
There are about 10 miles of multi-use trails that are open for riding in the Great falls park including the Difficult Run, Old Carriage Road, Matildaville, Ridge Trails, and Mine Run only. The Falls overlooks, the River Trail and Patowmack Canal Trails are prohibited for horse riding. The park does not offer the horse rides so you have to bring your own horse for riding in the park.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed for fishermen of more than 16 years who have either a Maryland or Virginia state fishing license. However, only line fishing is permitted, while net fishing is not allowed. Fishermen are not allowed to enter the water at any time. Similarly, wading and swimming are also not allowed in the Park.
Enjoy The View
One of the most favored activities at the Great Falls Park is to simply relax and view the majestic falls. These falls can be viewed from one of the three available overlooks. The Potomac River can be best viewed by the River Trail.
Maryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.
