Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park

McLean, US
76% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (13 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Audio tour - gps triggered and hands free

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Private transportation
  • exclusion
    Parking fees
  • exclusion
    $20 vehicle access pass

Meeting Point

Self-guided audio tour starting at Great Falls Park Visitor's Center. Download the VoiceMap App, load the Great Falls Park tour and start at the Visitor's Center. Includes step-by-step directions and map for the tour, all synced to your phone's GPS. Please download/activate GPS before entering Park

Meeting point

9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102 , United States

End point

End Point

Self-guided audio tour starting at Great Falls Park Visitor's Center. Download the VoiceMap App, load the Great Falls Park tour and start at the Visitor's Center. Includes step-by-step directions and map for the tour, all synced to your phone's GPS. Please download/activate GPS before entering Park

Meeting point

9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Great Falls Park

This is a SELF-GUIDED Audio Tour of Great Falls National Park. The self-guided audio tour begins at the Great Falls Visitor Center. Great Falls Park - the 3rd largest waterfalls in the United States, and one of the largest national parks immediately accessible to Washington DC. With a $20 vehicle access pass (not included in Viator package), you will have full access to the extensive Great Falls Park grounds and trails. The Viator package includes a guided step-by-step audio tour, including a walking map that syncs to your phone's GPS, as well as a narrated tour with over an hour of commentary about Great Falls and its hidden treasures. To ensure an ideal self-guided tour: Because cell phone service can be less than ideal, please download the VoiceMap app and Great Falls Tour before entering Great Falls Park grounds. When using the VoiceMap app, please enable GPS/Location to enable the GPS triggered tour.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
2

Great Falls Park

An abandoned city once visited by the United States' first president, George Washington. Walk through the ruins of a long forgotten piece of American history.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Great Falls

The third largest waterfalls in the United States. A must see if you're in the Washington DC area. You'll have 3 different viewing platforms for these amazing waterfalls. You'll also have views over the Mather Gorge downstream of the falls, as well as a view of hikers attempting the perilous Billy Goat Trail cliffs and Potomac River cliff rappelling, including Romeo's Ladder and Juliet's Balcony.

Duration 20 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant participants
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Self-Guided Audio Tour. No Tour Guide.
  • Additional information
    Cell Phone is required, headphones recommended
  • Additional information
    Parking ($20) is NOT included
  • Additional information
    Please download the app prior to entering Great Falls Park
Provided by Doug Z

What our experts say

  • icon
    Download VoiceMap app before arrival.
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    Consider visiting the abandoned city ruins.
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    Bring water and snacks for the hike.
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    Check out the views from Mather Gorge.
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    Plan for parking fees ($20) in advance.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the hidden treasures of Great Falls National Park on a thrilling self-guided waterfall hiking tour. Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other as you journey along the cliffs overlooking the majestic Potomac River. This unique experience offers an opportunity to explore lesser-known gems, experience exhilarating rock climbing excursions, and witness the region's most daring kayaking spots.

What to Expect?

During this self-guided tour, you can expect a total duration of 120 to 180 minutes of awe-inspiring natural beauty and excitement. From the moment you arrive at the Great Falls Park Visitor's Center, you'll be equipped with step-by-step directions and a map synced to your phone's GPS. The tour will take you through breathtaking locations, including the third-largest waterfalls in the United States, dramatic cliffs along the Potomac River, and the ruins of an abandoned colonial-era city. Prepare to be immersed in the wilderness with opportunities to go off-trail and witness daredevil kayakers in action.

Who is this For?

This self-guided waterfall hiking tour appeals to adventurers of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or outdoor junkie, this experience satisfies a diverse range of interests. Families seeking a unique excursion, couples in search of a memorable date, or solo travelers seeking an adrenaline rush will all find something to enjoy in this tour.

Why Book This?

Unlock the secrets of Great Falls National Park with this self-guided tour, offering an exclusive perspective that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. As you traverse the trails, you'll discover hidden waterfalls, witness heart-pounding rock climbing escapades, and experience the excitement of the region's wild kayaking stretches—all guided step-by-step through GPS. Escape the crowds and embrace the adventure as you explore areas only known to locals. The captivating narration will provide insights and stories, enriching your journey and making it an unforgettable experience.

Good to Know

It's essential to download the VoiceMap app and the Great Falls tour before entering the park to ensure uninterrupted access to the guided audio tour. Cell phone service can be unreliable within the park, so enabling GPS/location is crucial for a seamless experience. Feel free to take your time during the tour, as it typically takes about two hours to complete. Although the tour is not excessively challenging, it promises excitement at every turn. Make sure to come prepared with comfortable walking shoes and a sense of adventure.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this self-guided waterfall hiking tour rave about the unique perspectives and hidden wonders they discovered along the way. They commend the engaging narration and the ease of following the step-by-step directions. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions and witness the impressive waterfalls, the daring kayakers, and the picturesque cliffs overlooking the Potomac River. Overall, customers express satisfaction and a sense of thrill from this captivating and unforgettable experience in Great Falls National Park.

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