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United States, Virginia, Great Falls

Great Falls Park

Sports Facility · Bare rock · Pond

4.9 (229 ratings)

Discover the natural beauty of Great Falls Park in McLean, where 738.9 acres of picturesque landscapes await eager walkers and hikers. With a variety of trails suitable for all levels ...

Discover the natural beauty of Great Falls Park in McLean, where 738.9 acres of picturesque landscapes await eager walkers and hikers. With a variety of trails suitable for all levels of activity, this park is an ideal destination for those seeking an outdoor adventure. From the scenic Ridge Trail to the tranquil Swamp Trail, there are numerous options to explore the park's diverse terrain and experience the joy of walking and hiking in nature. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, Great Falls Park offers something for everyone. As you traverse the well-maintained trails of Great Falls Park, you'll encounter breathtaking views of the Potomac River and its iconic waterfalls, adding a touch of grandeur to your walking or hiking experience. The park boasts an array of routes, including the popular Riverbend Road Trail and the rugged Wolfpack Trail, providing ample opportunities for adventure and discovery. With a total of 16 trails to choose from, ranging from short and easy paths to longer, more demanding routes, there's no shortage of exploration in this stunning natural oasis. For walkers and hikers seeking comprehensive information about the park's routes and amenities, the Pacer Pedometer app is an invaluable resource. Download the app to access detailed trail maps, route lengths, estimated times, and user reviews, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to Great Falls Park. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse trail network, this renowned park in McLean is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to embark on an unforgettable walking or hiking adventure.

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Reviews (18)
Photos (136)
Walking and Hiking in Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park in McLean, United States, is a haven for walkers and hikers seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. With its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse terrain, this park offers the ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in walking and hiking activities. The park's essential amenities, including multiple parking ...

Great Falls Park in McLean, United States, is a haven for walkers and hikers seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. With its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse terrain, this park offers the ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in walking and hiking activities. The park's essential amenities, including multiple parking lots, wheelchair-friendly facilities, and well-maintained restrooms, ensure convenience and comfort for visitors. Additionally, the availability of numerous picnic sites and BBQ facilities makes it a great destination for a leisurely outdoor gathering after a fulfilling walk or hike. Moreover, the presence of a bike path provides an alternative activity for those looking to explore the park on two wheels. For those seeking accessibility, the park is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that everyone can partake in the adventure. Furthermore, visitors can relish stunning viewpoints such as the Great Falls Overlook 1, 2, and 3, adding an extra dimension to their walking or hiking experience. Great Falls Park, McLean, is the ultimate destination for walkers and hikers, offering an array of amenities and natural wonders to elevate their outdoor adventures.

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Other Information
https://www.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm
Essential Amenities
Picnic Site
BBQ
Wheelchair friendly
Restroom
Parking lot
Sport Facilities
Bike path
Accessibility
Wheelchair friendly
Things to See
Viewpoint

Great Falls Overlook 1

Viewpoint

Great Falls Overlook 3

Viewpoint

Great Falls Overlook 2

Best Walking Routes in Great Falls Park
#1 - Great Falls Park - Ridge Trail
(11 reviews)
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m
#2 - Mine Run Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
#3 - Matildaville Trail
(2 reviews)
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 10m
See All Routes
Reviews of Great Falls Park
4.9/5
229 ratings
Caroline W2023/03/12
5

Excellent views. Good hike. 6 miles. We stopped for a snack. Were here 2.5 hours.

richard2021/09/13
5

Loved this hike. Was easy until river trail

madrian.jones2020/08/10
5

Excellent views!! And great trails!!!

See All Reviews (18)
See All Reviews (18)
Nearby Parks
Woodrock Playground Park
Rockwood Special Park
Great Falls Grange Park
Greenway Heights Park
Old Dominion School Site
Heritage Farm Neighborhood Park
Hickory Run School Site
Wolftrap Stream Valley Park
Lexington Estates Park
FAQs about Great Falls Park
Where is the best place to walk in Great Falls Park?
The best place to walk in Great Falls Park would be the Ridge Trail, which has a rating of 4.5 and 11 reviews. It is a 0.9-mile trail with an estimated time of 16 minutes. The Pacer community highly recommends this trail for its scenic views and manageable difficulty.
How many routes are in Great Falls Park?
Great Falls Park offers a variety of routes for walking and hiking. There are a total of 17 routes to explore, each with its own unique features and difficulty levels. You can choose from short, leisurely walks to longer, more challenging hikes based on your preference and fitness level.
Which is the longest route in Great Falls Park?
The longest route in Great Falls Park is the River Bend Park, which spans 8.6 miles with an estimated time of 3 hours and 21 minutes. This trail offers a more extensive hiking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park. While it may be more challenging, it rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Great Falls Park?
Yes, Great Falls Park provides essential amenities such as parking lots, picnic sites, restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly access to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for walkers and hikers.
How accessible is Great Falls Park?
Great Falls Park is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all visitors to explore the park and enjoy its natural beauty.
What kind of sports can I do in Great Falls Park?
Great Falls Park offers a bike path for cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a scenic ride through the park's beautiful surroundings.
What is the best season to walk in Great Falls Park?
The best season to walk in Great Falls Park is typically spring or fall when the weather is milder and the foliage is at its most vibrant.
What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Great Falls Park?
Visitors to Great Falls Park should prepare for a range of weather conditions. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and sometimes snowy. It's important to check the forecast and dress accordingly.
What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Great Falls Park?
Great Falls Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, various bird species, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should be respectful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance if encountered.
Best Walking Routes in Great Falls Park
#1 - Great Falls Park - Ridge Trail
4.5 (11 reviews)
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m
#2 - Mine Run Trail
4.5 (1 review)
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
#3 - Matildaville Trail
4.5 (2 reviews)
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 10m
See All Routes
Nearby Parks
Woodrock Playground Park
Rockwood Special Park
Great Falls Grange Park
Greenway Heights Park
Old Dominion School Site
Heritage Farm Neighborhood Park
Hickory Run School Site
Wolftrap Stream Valley Park
Lexington Estates Park
Latest Check-in
SamuelAug 18, 2024
Aug 18, 2024Hiking
PacerPalAug 3, 2024
Aug 3, 2024Walking
CamilleJun 23, 2024
Jun 23, 2024Walking
IbrahimJun 23, 2024
Jun 23, 2024Walking
ChristopherJun 22, 2024
Jun 22, 2024Walking
PacerPalJun 16, 2024
Jun 16, 2024Walking
ShaleiseJun 14, 2024
Jun 14, 2024Walking
AlexisJun 8, 2024
Jun 8, 2024Hiking
lawpaulJun 4, 2024
Jun 4, 2024Walking
JenniMay 27, 2024
May 27, 2024Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Check-in Leaderboard
RankingCheck-ins
VA-Yuli
22
dsmwolverton
18
PacerPal
13
4
12
5Hutch1344
6
6PacerPal
4
7
4
8richard
4
9xxlondxn
4
10Jenni
3
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Great Falls Park
#1- Great Falls Park - Ridge Trail
(11 reviews)
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m
#2- Mine Run Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
#3- Matildaville Trail
(2 reviews)
Length: 0.6 milesEst. Time: 10m
#4- Swamp Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 7m
#5- Mine Run Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
#6- Difficult Run Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 13m
#7- Wolfpack Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 3m
#8- Swamp Ridge Connector Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 7m
#9- Riverbend Road Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 7m
#10- Riverbend Road Trail
(1 review)
Length: 0.4 milesEst. Time: 7m
#11- Ridge Trail
(1 review)
Length: 3.5 milesEst. Time: 59m
Reviews of Great Falls Park
Caroline W2023/03/12
5

Excellent views. Good hike. 6 miles. We stopped for a snack. Were here 2.5 hours.

richard2021/09/13
5

Loved this hike. Was easy until river trail

madrian.jones2020/08/10
5

Excellent views!! And great trails!!!

PacerPal2024/06/24
5
PacerPal2024/06/15
4
Joe2024/05/27
5
Maya2024/04/07
4
Maya2023/03/20
5
cris2022/10/31
5
PacerPal2022/09/11
5
biggie smalls2022/03/27
5
PacerPal2022/02/13
5
Nana2021/06/15
5
Joan Craft2021/05/16
5
Kiya2021/03/28
5
4.9/5
229 ratings