While At The Park

The following information will help you make your visit to Great Falls a safe and enjoyable one. If you have questions or need additional information, contact the park at 703-757-3101.

Programs will be cancelled in the event of dangerous weather events, such as thunderstorms. Participants are reminded to dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.

Group Logistics

Chaperones: There should be at least one (1) adult for every ten (10) children.

Arrival: The group should be in the park 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled program time.

Bathrooms: Located outside in the courtyard area of the Visitor Center. Water fountains are located in the courtyard from April- October, and inside the Visitor Center year round.

Bus Parking: After dropping off the group, drivers should park toward the far end of the parking lot away from the Visitor Center.

Food: There is a snack bar (closed mid Nov. – mid March.) at the Visitor Center. If you are bringing lunches, they can be stored in the ranger office as needed. Picnic tables and grills are available year round on a first come, first serve basis. Great Falls is a trash free park and there are no trash cans within the park. All trash will need to be taken out with your group.

Accessibility: Some trails are not accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Please inform us ahead of time if there are any special requirements for your group.

Cell Phones: Need to be left on vibrate or turned off during the program. If it is an emergency, please leave the group to answer the phone.

Pets: Pets are not permitted on ranger-led programs, including school and group programs, with the exception of guide dogs and other service animals.

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Safety

Please go over these safety tips and rules with your group prior to your visit.

* Swimming and wading are strictly prohibited. Stay away from the water's edge.

* There is one type of venomous snake, the copperhead, found in the park.

* Poison ivy is common in the park. This plant has a characteristic hairy vine, and leaves that grow in clusters of three.

* Ground fires are prohibited.

* Picking wildflowers, touching and feeding wildlife, and/or removing rocks, plants, or historic ruins is not allowed.

* Climbing rocks can be dangerous and should not be attempted without experience and the proper equipment.

* Use caution around the cliffs, and stay away from the edge.

* Stay on designated trails.

* Report any accidents/incidents to the rangers. The rangers will be on the trails, in the Visitor Center or in the Entrance Station.

* First aid is available in the Visitor Center and ranger office.

Remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility.