• Great Falls of the Potomac in summer

    Great Falls

    Park Virginia

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  • Trash Free Park

    Great Falls Park is now a trash free park. Trash cans have been removed. Please come prepared to carry your trash out with you. More »

  • River Safety

    Learn more about how to stay safe around the Potomac. Please remember swimming and wading are strictly prohibited. More »

A Destination for Recreation

At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.

Features

  • Closeup of Great Falls from river level

    River Safety

    Swimming and wading are prohibited in the park due to dangerous river currents and hydraulics. Use caution around the Potomac.

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  • Trout Lilies

    Trash Free Park

    On April 22, Great Falls will become a trash free park. Please take your trash with you when you leave.

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  • Two women visiting Great Falls in 1920

    Explore the Parkway

    Great Falls is just one place to visit along the George Washington Memorial Parkway. From historic homes to carousels, there's plenty to explore.

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Did You Know?

The second carousel in Great Falls Park

There used to be a carousel at Great Falls Park. A flood caused by Hurricane Agnes in 1972 damaged the carousel beyond repair.