• 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 »

Pets

Leashed dogs are welcome on all park trails.

Pets must be on a 6 foot leash at all times.

National Park Service

Leashed pets are welcome on all park trails, parking lots, falls overlooks, and picnic areas. There are no off-leash areas in Great Falls Park. Owners must have physical control of the animal, using a six foot leash, at all times. Electronic or 'shock' collars do not count as a leash. With the exception of service dogs, pets are not permitted in the visitor center, or on ranger-led programs.

The leash law is in effect to protect pets and people. Be aware of dangerous currents in the Potomac, cliffs, venomous snakes, and the safety and comfort of other visitors and keep your pet on a leash at all times. Loose dogs can become prey for the coyotes that live in the park.

An off leash dog park is available in Reston, about fifteen minutes from Great Falls Park. Other off leash parks are located in Herndon, Arlington, Alexandria city, and Vienna.

Fairfax County parks, including Riverbend Park and the Cross County Trail, require all pets to be on a six foot leash at all times.

During the warmer months, remember not to leave your pet unattended in a car. Temperatures in closed vehicles can be fatal to pets.

Did You Know?

Ice in the Potomac and Falls

Water temperatures in the Potomac can drop to freezing and ice will form along the banks. However, the water is moving too quickly through the Great Falls to completely freeze over.