Discover the Serenity of Bear Island Potomac Gorge
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Bear Island Potomac Gorge, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Nestled along the banks of the Potomac River, Bear Island Potomac Gorge is a nature lover's paradise offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails that beckon tourists to explore. This hidden gem presents a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, making it an ideal destination for hikers, photographers, and families looking to reconnect with nature.
A brief summary to Bear Island Potomac Gorge
- Billy Goat Trail Section A, Potomac, Maryland, 20854, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as some trails can be rocky and steep.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during hikes.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially during early mornings.
- Plan your visit during the fall to enjoy breathtaking foliage along the trails.
Getting There
-
Car
From any location on the Billy Goat Trail, head towards the main entrance of the park. If you are at Section A of the Billy Goat Trail, take the trail back to the parking lot. Once at the parking area, drive towards the main road. You will need to exit the park and head towards MacArthur Blvd. Take a right onto MacArthur Blvd, and continue driving until you reach the intersection with River Rd. Then take a left onto River Rd. Drive for about 1.5 miles until you see signs for the Great Falls Park. Follow the signs to the visitor center, where you can park your car. Be aware that there may be a parking fee of approximately $20 for non-residents, which is valid for a day.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Bear Island Potomac Gorge using public transportation, you will first need to take the Metro to the Bethesda Station (Red Line). From Bethesda, catch the Ride On Bus #47 towards River Rd. & Seven Locks Rd. and get off at the stop for Great Falls Park. The bus ride takes about 30-40 minutes. From the bus stop, you will need to walk approximately 1 mile to the entrance of Great Falls Park. Once you arrive, you can access the trails leading to Bear Island. Note that this trip may take approximately 1.5 hours in total, and ensure you have some cash or a SmarTrip card for the bus fare.
-
Walking
If you are already at Section A of the Billy Goat Trail, you can take a scenic walk along the trail towards Bear Island Potomac Gorge. Follow the trail markers, and you will reach the riverbanks and scenic views along the Potomac River. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles long and can take around 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as some sections can be rocky and uneven.
Discover more about Bear Island Potomac Gorge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark
0.1 km
Discover the rich historical roots and stunning landscapes at the Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark in Potomac, Maryland.
Great Falls Parking(BillyGoat)
1.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Great Falls Park with convenient access from Great Falls Parking in Potomac, MD.
Burling Cabin Site
4.3 km
Explore the Burling Cabin Site in McLean, VA, a historical landmark embodying early American settler life amidst serene natural beauty.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
5.6 km
Discover the beauty and history of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, a scenic waterway perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
Colvin Run Mill
6.1 km
Explore Colvin Run Mill, a historical landmark in Great Falls, VA, where history meets nature, and local culture flourishes in a captivating setting.
Historic Pleasant Grove
6.3 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
7.9 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
8.5 km
Discover Clara Barton's inspiring legacy at her historic home, where history and humanitarianism converge in Glen Echo, Maryland.
Bethesda Historical Society
9.9 km
Discover the captivating history and cultural heritage of Bethesda at the Bethesda Historical Society, a community gem for history enthusiasts.
Freeman Store & Museum
10.7 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.
C&O Canal Lock 6
11.0 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty at C&O Canal Lock 6 in Washington, Maryland—an iconic landmark of America's canal system.
Dranesville Tavern Historic
11.2 km
Explore the rich history of Dranesville Tavern Historic, a charming landmark in Herndon, Virginia, that brings the past to life.
Gallery Bethesda II
11.5 km
Discover comfort and convenience at Gallery Bethesda II, your perfect home base in vibrant Bethesda, Maryland, near local attractions and dining.
Gringos & Mariachis
11.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Gringos & Mariachis in Bethesda, MD, the perfect spot for brunch, dinner, or a festive night out.
Maryland
11.5 km
Explore Maryland’s unique blend of city and suburban living with comfortable apartment accommodations and rich cultural experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gold Mine Trail
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Gold Mine Trail in Potomac, MD, a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure for every outdoor enthusiast.
Great Falls Hiking
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and scenic views at Great Falls Hiking in Rockville, Maryland, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Woodland Trail View
1.2 km
Explore the stunning Woodland Trail View in Potomac, Maryland, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
C&O Canal Lock 16
1.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of C&O Canal Lock 16, a must-visit landmark in Potomac, Maryland, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Turtle Rock
1.3 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Turtle Rock in Potomac, Maryland, a serene park perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
One Tree Stands
1.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of One Tree Stands in Potomac, MD, a serene park perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Billy Goat Trail Section A East End Trailhead
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Billy Goat Trail Section A East End, a premier hiking destination in Potomac Falls, Maryland.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls Maryland
1.4 km
Discover the charm of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, where history meets nature in breathtaking landscapes.
Great Falls Overlook Trailhead
1.5 km
Explore the Great Falls Overlook Trailhead, where Maryland's stunning landscapes meet the powerful beauty of the Potomac River's waterfalls.
Great falls, side parking
1.5 km
Explore Great Falls in Potomac, Maryland – a breathtaking park with stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, and rich history perfect for all nature lovers.
C&O Canal Lock 19
1.5 km
Explore C&O Canal Lock 19, a historical landmark showcasing 19th-century engineering amidst stunning natural beauty in Potomac, Maryland.
Great Falls
1.5 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
1.5 km
Explore the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center for a unique blend of nature, history, and adventure in the heart of Maryland's scenic landscapes.
Little Sister Falls
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Little Sister Falls in Potomac, Maryland, a serene natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
C&O Canal Lock 20
1.6 km
Experience the rich history and natural beauty at C&O Canal Lock 20, a must-visit historical landmark along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.
Essential places to dine
CAVA
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at CAVA in Potomac—fresh ingredients and customizable dishes await!
Not Your Average Joe's - Bethesda
9.6 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
9.8 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)
10.4 km
Experience the finest steak and seafood at Glenwood's in Rockville - where culinary excellence meets inviting ambiance.
Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge
10.4 km
Discover Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge in Rockville for an unforgettable taste of classic American cuisine amidst rustic charm.
Cava Mezze Rockville
10.9 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Cava Mezze Rockville - where every meal is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.
Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant
11.0 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Bethesda at Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant—where quality meets flavor in every dish.
Cooper's Mill
11.3 km
Discover Cooper's Mill: A culinary haven in Bethesda offering exquisite American cuisine with fresh seafood delights.
Lilit Café Beer & Wine
11.3 km
Experience a unique blend of gluten-free delights and exceptional beverages at Lilit Café Beer & Wine in Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle.
Guardado's Restaurant
11.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Guardado's Restaurant in Bethesda - where every dish tells a story.
Passage to India
11.5 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Passage to India in Bethesda - where tradition meets modern fine dining with vegan and gluten-free options.
Tia Queta Restaurant
11.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican flavors at Tia Queta Restaurant in Bethesda—where every dish tells a story.
La Panetteria Restaurant
11.5 km
Experience authentic Italian and Argentinian flavors at La Panetteria in Bethesda – where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Trattoria Sorrento
11.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Sorrento in Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle - a culinary delight not to be missed.
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Rockville
11.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine and fine wines at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Rockville—where every meal is a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Billy Goat Trail
1.5 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
1.6 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
5.3 km
Explore the charm of Potomac French Market, a treasure trove of unique gifts, antiques, and artistic creations in Potomac, Maryland.
White House Black Market
8.0 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and accessories at White House Black Market in Bethesda, where fashion meets quality and elegance.
Tysons Galleria
8.0 km
Discover high-end shopping, exquisite dining, and a vibrant atmosphere at Tysons Galleria in McLean, Virginia.
Urban Outfitters
8.0 km
Discover the latest fashion, beauty, and home goods at Urban Outfitters in Bethesda's Montgomery Mall, your ultimate shopping destination.
francesca's
8.0 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
8.0 km
Explore Westfield Montgomery: A premier shopping destination in Bethesda, Maryland, featuring top brands, dining, and entertainment for all ages.
2 the 9s
8.0 km
Shop the latest trends at 2 the 9s, Bethesda's premier women's clothing boutique offering stylish and contemporary fashion choices.
Cabin John Village
8.1 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Cabin John Village, a charming destination in Potomac, Maryland.
Occasions
8.2 km
Explore Occasions Gift Shop in Potomac, MD for unique gifts and local treasures that beautifully capture your visit.
Lillie and Eve
8.4 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
9.6 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
9.6 km
Experience the charm of Georgetown Square - a vibrant shopping mall in Bethesda, Maryland with unique shops, dining, and community events.
Irresistibles
9.8 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
3.0 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
3.2 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
3.3 km
Experience the finest sushi and Japanese cuisine at En Bistro & Sushi, a Potomac culinary treasure.
Old Brogue Irish Pub
5.1 km
Discover an authentic Irish pub experience in Great Falls, VA, with traditional dishes, extensive drink selections, and a warm atmosphere.
Wild Tomato
6.4 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
7.9 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
8.2 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Gregorio's Trattoria, where every meal is a celebration of authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
The Grove
8.3 km
Experience the unique charm of The Grove in Potomac, Maryland, where delicious cuisine meets a stunning cherry blossom theme.
Darcy's Bar + Kitchen
8.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Darcy's Bar + Kitchen, the perfect blend of bar and restaurant in Bethesda, MD.
MoCo's Founding Farmers
9.6 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at MoCo's Founding Farmers, where farm-fresh ingredients meet hearty flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille
9.6 km
Discover Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille, where delicious grilled dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await in Potomac, Maryland.
Avenue Hookah Lounge
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Avenue Hookah Lounge in Bethesda, where relaxation and socializing blend seamlessly with premium hookah flavors.
La Catrina Lounge
11.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at La Catrina Lounge, perfect for a fun dining experience in Bethesda.
Tommy Joe's
11.5 km
Discover Tommy Joe's in Bethesda: A lively grill serving American favorites, live music, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Sports & Social Bethesda
11.5 km
Experience the best of sports, food, and fun at Sports & Social Bethesda, the ultimate sports bar destination in North Bethesda.
