Discover the Natural Wonders of Great Falls Hiking
Explore the breathtaking trails and scenic views at Great Falls Hiking in Rockville, Maryland, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Great Falls Hiking offers breathtaking views and invigorating trails for nature lovers in Rockville, Maryland. Experience scenic landscapes, wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels of adventurers.
A brief summary to Great Falls Hiking
- 8705 Belmart Rd, Rockville, Maryland, 20854, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized during your hike.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking to navigate the trails safely.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and deer, especially during quieter times.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the Billy Goat Trail, take the exit for MacArthur Blvd toward Great Falls. Continue on MacArthur Blvd for approximately 3 miles. You will pass through scenic areas along the Potomac River. Look for signs directing you to Great Falls Park. Upon reaching the park entrance, there is a parking fee of $20 for a vehicle. After paying, follow the signs to the Great Falls Visitor Center to start your hike.
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Public Transportation
To reach Great Falls Hiking via public transportation, take the Metro to the Grosvenor-Strathmore station on the Red Line. From there, board the 47 bus towards the Glen Echo Park. Get off at the intersection of MacArthur Blvd and the Great Falls Park entrance. You will need to walk approximately 1 mile to reach the Visitor Center. Note that the bus fare is typically around $2.00. Ensure to check the bus schedule for the return trip.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can bike from the Billy Goat Trail to Great Falls. Start from the trailhead and follow the C&O Canal Towpath towards Great Falls. The distance is approximately 4 miles. Once you reach the entrance of Great Falls Park, you will need to lock your bike at the designated bike racks. Remember to carry a bike lock and check the weather conditions before you go.
Discover more about Great Falls Hiking
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark
1.0 km
Explore the historic Maryland Gold Mine National Landmark, a significant site showcasing the rich history of gold mining in the United States.
Great Falls Parking(BillyGoat)
2.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Great Falls Park with convenient access from Great Falls Parking in Potomac, MD.
Burling Cabin Site
5.3 km
Explore the Burling Cabin Site in McLean, VA, a historical landmark embodying early American settler life amidst serene natural beauty.
Colvin Run Mill
5.7 km
Explore Colvin Run Mill, a historical landmark in Great Falls, VA, where history meets nature, and local culture flourishes in a captivating setting.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
6.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, a scenic waterway perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
Historic Pleasant Grove
6.8 km
Discover the hidden stories and rich heritage of Virginia at Historic Pleasant Grove, a charming local history museum in McLean.
Samuel Wade Magruder House Historic Site
8.5 km
Explore the Samuel Wade Magruder House Historic Site in Bethesda, Maryland, a captivating glimpse into the region's architectural and historical heritage.
Clara Barton National Historic Site
9.5 km
Explore Clara Barton's National Historic Site: A Journey Through American History and Humanitarian Legacy in Glen Echo, Maryland.
Dranesville Tavern Historic
10.3 km
Explore the rich history of Dranesville Tavern Historic, a charming landmark in Herndon, Virginia, that brings the past to life.
C&O Canal Lock 23
10.5 km
Discover C&O Canal Lock 23, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into America's canal history along the Potomac River.
Bethesda Historical Society
10.8 km
Discover the captivating history and cultural heritage of Bethesda at the Bethesda Historical Society, a community gem for history enthusiasts.
Freeman Store & Museum
11.0 km
Explore the rich history and unique local charm of Vienna, Virginia at the Freeman Store & Museum—your gateway to the town's fascinating past.
West Montgomery Avenue Historic District
11.6 km
Experience the rich heritage of Rockville at West Montgomery Avenue Historic District, where historic homes and charming streets await your discovery.
Rockville Historic District
11.9 km
Explore the Rockville Historic District, where history meets modern charm in the heart of Maryland's vibrant city.
Montgomery County Courthouse Historic District
11.9 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Montgomery County Courthouse Historic District in Rockville, Maryland, a true gem for history lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls Maryland
0.4 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, where nature meets American heritage in stunning landscapes.
Great Falls
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Great Falls, where cascading waterfalls and scenic trails await nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center
0.6 km
Explore the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, where history meets nature along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Maryland.
C&O Canal Lock 20
0.6 km
Explore the historic C&O Canal Lock 20, a serene landmark where rich history meets stunning natural beauty along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.
Ford Mine Trail
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Ford Mine Trail in Potomac, MD, where history and nature intertwine for an unforgettable hiking adventure.
C&O Canal Lock 19
0.7 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of C&O Canal Lock 19, a key landmark along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in Maryland.
Great Falls Overlook Trailhead
0.8 km
Explore the Great Falls Overlook Trailhead, where Maryland's stunning landscapes meet the powerful beauty of the Potomac River's waterfalls.
Little Sister Falls
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Little Sister Falls in Maryland, a serene destination perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Baby Sister Falls
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Baby Sister Falls in Potomac, MD – a perfect nature escape with stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes.
C&O Canal Lock 16
1.0 km
Discover C&O Canal Lock 16, a historical gem along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, where nature and history intertwine beautifully.
Bear Island Potomac Gorge
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Bear Island Potomac Gorge, a serene nature preserve perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Gold Mine Trail
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Gold Mine Trail in Potomac, MD, a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure for every outdoor enthusiast.
Potomac River Dam
1.2 km
Explore the Potomac River Dam, a serene park in Maryland offering stunning views, recreational activities, and a peaceful escape into nature.
River Trail, C&O Canal NHP
1.3 km
Discover the stunning River Trail at C&O Canal NHP, a picturesque hiking area along the Potomac River, rich in natural beauty and historical significance.
Great Falls Park
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Great Falls Park in Virginia, a perfect escape for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Essential places to dine
CAVA
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at CAVA in Potomac—fresh ingredients and customizable dishes await!
Not Your Average Joe's - Bethesda
10.3 km
Discover Not Your Average Joe's in Bethesda for delicious American cuisine in a warm atmosphere - perfect for tourists seeking comfort food.
Flower Child
10.5 km
Experience vibrant dining at Flower Child in Bethesda - where healthy meets delicious with options for every dietary need.
Glenwood's (formerly Stanford Grill - Rockville)
10.5 km
Experience the finest steak and seafood at Glenwood's in Rockville - where culinary excellence meets inviting ambiance.
Cava Mezze Rockville
10.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Cava Mezze Rockville - where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.
Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge
10.6 km
Discover Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge in Rockville for an unforgettable taste of classic American cuisine amidst rustic charm.
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Rockville
11.4 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine and fine wines at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Rockville—where every meal is a celebration.
Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant
11.8 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Bethesda at Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant—where quality meets flavor in every dish.
Bombay Bistro
11.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of India at Bombay Bistro in Rockville, offering authentic dishes for every palate, including vegan and vegetarian delights.
Mykonos Grill
12.0 km
Discover authentic Greek flavors at Mykonos Grill in Rockville – where every dish tells a story from the Mediterranean.
Nosh Grill House
12.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Asia at Nosh Grill House - where culinary creativity meets fun dining experiences in Rockville.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
12.0 km
Indulge in an authentic Brazilian dining experience at Fogo de Chão Steakhouse featuring endless grilled meats and vibrant flavors.
Summer House Santa Monica
12.1 km
Experience Californian dining at its finest at Summer House Santa Monica in North Bethesda – where every meal feels like a vacation.
Cooper's Mill
12.1 km
Discover Cooper's Mill: A culinary haven in Bethesda offering exquisite American cuisine with fresh seafood delights.
Mosaic Cuisine
12.1 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine and vibrant dining at Mosaic Cuisine in Rockville, MD—where every meal is a masterpiece.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Billy Goat Trail
2.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Billy Goat Trail, a premier hiking destination along the Potomac River, perfect for all adventure seekers.
Old Anglers Inn
2.5 km
Discover Old Anglers Inn, a historic dining destination offering exquisite American cuisine and stunning Potomac River views for an unforgettable experience.
Potomac French Market
4.5 km
Explore the charm of Potomac French Market, a treasure trove of unique gifts, antiques, and artistic creations in Potomac, Maryland.
Cabin John Village
8.5 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Cabin John Village, a charming destination in Potomac, Maryland.
Occasions
8.5 km
Explore Occasions Gift Shop in Potomac, MD for unique gifts and local treasures that beautifully capture your visit.
White House Black Market
8.6 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and accessories at White House Black Market in Bethesda, where fashion meets quality and elegance.
Urban Outfitters
8.6 km
Discover the latest fashion, beauty, and home goods at Urban Outfitters in Bethesda's Montgomery Mall, your ultimate shopping destination.
francesca's
8.6 km
Discover a unique blend of fashion and accessories at Francesca's, a must-visit boutique in Bethesda for stylish women and trendy gifts.
Westfield Montgomery
8.6 km
Explore Westfield Montgomery: A premier shopping destination in Bethesda, Maryland, featuring top brands, dining, and entertainment for all ages.
2 the 9s
8.7 km
Shop the latest trends at 2 the 9s, Bethesda's premier women's clothing boutique offering stylish and contemporary fashion choices.
Tysons Galleria
8.7 km
Discover high-end shopping, exquisite dining, and a vibrant atmosphere at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Virginia.
Lillie and Eve
9.0 km
Explore Lillie and Eve, a unique gift shop in Bethesda, MD, featuring local artisans and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of the area.
On Cloud 9
9.8 km
Discover unique and stylish children's clothing at On Cloud 9 in Potomac, Maryland – a boutique dedicated to making kids' fashion fun and exciting.
Georgetown Square
10.3 km
Experience the charm of Georgetown Square - a vibrant shopping mall in Bethesda, Maryland with unique shops, dining, and community events.
Irresistibles
10.5 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Irresistibles, a stylish boutique in Bethesda, Maryland, perfect for your wardrobe update.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moby Dick House of Kabob
3.2 km
Experience authentic Persian and Mediterranean flavors at Moby Dick House of Kabob in Potomac, MD, perfect for food lovers and families alike.
Hunter’s Bar and Grill
3.4 km
Discover the flavors of America at Hunter’s Bar and Grill, where delicious food meets a welcoming atmosphere in Potomac, Maryland.
En Bistro & Sushi
3.5 km
Experience the finest sushi and Japanese cuisine at En Bistro & Sushi, a Potomac culinary treasure.
Old Brogue Irish Pub
4.2 km
Discover an authentic Irish pub experience in Great Falls, VA, with traditional dishes, extensive drink selections, and a warm atmosphere.
Wild Tomato
7.4 km
Experience the best of American comfort food at Wild Tomato in Cabin John, where flavor meets a cozy atmosphere for unforgettable dining.
High Point Pub
8.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at High Point Pub, a must-visit pub in McLean, Virginia, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Gregorio's Trattoria
8.6 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Gregorio's Trattoria, where every meal is a celebration of authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
The Grove
8.6 km
Experience the unique charm of The Grove in Potomac, Maryland, where delicious cuisine meets a stunning cherry blossom theme.
Darcy's Bar + Kitchen
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Darcy's Bar + Kitchen, the perfect blend of bar and restaurant in Bethesda, MD.
Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille
9.8 km
Discover Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille, where delicious grilled dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await in Potomac, Maryland.
MoCo's Founding Farmers
9.8 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at MoCo's Founding Farmers, where farm-fresh ingredients meet hearty flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Velocity Wings - Potomac Falls
11.0 km
Experience the ultimate chicken wing adventure at Velocity Wings in Potomac Falls, where flavor meets sports in a vibrant atmosphere.
Sports & Social Bethesda
12.0 km
Experience the best of sports, food, and fun at Sports & Social Bethesda, the ultimate sports bar destination in North Bethesda.
City Perch Kitchen + Bar
12.0 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine and craft cocktails at City Perch Kitchen + Bar, a true culinary gem in North Bethesda, Maryland.
Owen's Tavern & Garden
12.1 km
Discover the vibrant dining scene at Owen's Tavern & Garden, where American cuisine meets a lively beer hall atmosphere in North Bethesda.
