Discover the Natural Wonders of Great Falls Park
Experience the majestic beauty of Great Falls Park in Virginia, where breathtaking waterfalls and scenic trails await every visitor.
Great Falls Park, located in McLean, Virginia, is a stunning natural oasis featuring breathtaking waterfalls and picturesque hiking trails. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, this park offers a unique escape from urban life while showcasing the beauty of the Potomac River.
A brief summary to Great Falls Park
- 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, Virginia, 22102, US
- +1703-757-3101
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience, especially on weekends.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be rocky and steep.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas with scenic views.
- Check the visitor center for information on ranger-led programs and guided tours.
- Don't miss the observation points for the best views of the falls; they are well-marked on the trails.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Frederick, walk to the nearest bus stop on East Patrick Street. Take the MARC train or the local bus service towards Washington, D.C. and get off at the Tysons Corner station. From Tysons Corner, transfer to the Fairfax Connector bus 401, which goes towards Great Falls Park. After about a 20-minute ride, you will reach the stop closest to Great Falls Park. Walk about 10 minutes to the park entrance at 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102.
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Biking
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike in downtown Frederick. Head towards the Monocacy National Battlefield and follow the bike trails that lead towards Virginia. Make your way through the scenic routes, and continue towards the vicinity of McLean. Once you reach the area, use a map application to navigate to 9200 Old Dominion Dr, which is the entrance to Great Falls Park. The ride may take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace.
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Walking
Unfortunately, Great Falls Park is quite a distance from downtown Frederick, making it impractical to walk. However, if you are determined, start from the Frederick Visitor Center and head towards the Monocacy River. From there, you would need to navigate through several neighborhoods and cross into Virginia. The total walking distance is about 30 miles, so this would take a significant amount of time and effort, possibly requiring overnight accommodation.
Discover more about Great Falls Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maryland Gold Mine National Historic Landmark
2.0 km
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Great Falls Parking(BillyGoat)
2.8 km
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Colvin Run Mill
4.4 km
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Burling Cabin Site
5.8 km
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Historic Pleasant Grove
6.2 km
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Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
7.5 km
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Dranesville Tavern Historic
9.2 km
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Samuel Wade Magruder House Historic Site
9.9 km
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C&O Canal Lock 23
10.2 km
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Freeman Store & Museum
10.2 km
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Clara Barton National Historic Site
10.4 km
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Bethesda Historical Society
11.9 km
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C&O Canal Lock 6
12.8 km
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West Montgomery Avenue Historic District
12.8 km
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Lanesville Heritage Area
13.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Baby Sister Falls
0.5 km
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Little Sister Falls
0.6 km
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Great Falls Overlook Trailhead
0.6 km
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C&O Canal Lock 19
0.7 km
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C&O Canal Lock 20
0.8 km
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Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center
0.8 km
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Great Falls
0.9 km
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C&O Canal Lock 16
1.0 km
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Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, Great Falls Maryland
1.0 km
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Matildaville Trail
1.1 km
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Potomac River Dam
1.3 km
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The Rooftop at the Potomac River
1.3 km
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Great Falls Hiking
1.4 km
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Ford Mine Trail
1.5 km
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Gold Mine Trail
1.6 km
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Essential places to dine
CAVA
9.8 km
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Cava Mezze Rockville
11.6 km
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Not Your Average Joe's - Bethesda
11.6 km
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Flower Child
11.8 km
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Glenwood's (formerly Stanford Grill - Rockville)
11.9 km
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Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge
12.0 km
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Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Rockville
12.5 km
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Chef Tony's Fresh Seafood Restaurant
13.1 km
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Bombay Bistro
13.2 km
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Nosh Grill House
13.3 km
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Cooper's Mill
13.4 km
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Mykonos Grill
13.4 km
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Lilit Café Beer & Wine
13.4 km
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Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
13.4 km
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Om Indian Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Billy Goat Trail
2.8 km
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Old Anglers Inn
2.9 km
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Potomac French Market
5.1 km
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Tysons Galleria
8.3 km
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Cabin John Village
9.8 km
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Occasions
9.9 km
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White House Black Market
9.9 km
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Urban Outfitters
10.0 km
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francesca's
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Westfield Montgomery
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2 the 9s
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Lillie and Eve
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On Cloud 9
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Georgetown Square
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Irresistibles
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Brogue Irish Pub
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Moby Dick House of Kabob
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Hunter’s Bar and Grill
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En Bistro & Sushi
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High Point Pub
8.1 km
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Wild Tomato
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Gregorio's Trattoria
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The Grove
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Velocity Wings - Potomac Falls
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Darcy's Bar + Kitchen
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Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille
11.1 km
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MoCo's Founding Farmers
11.2 km
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Sports & Social Bethesda
13.4 km
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City Perch Kitchen + Bar
13.4 km
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World of Beer
13.4 km
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