If parking lots become full, there will be a temporary closure of the park entrance at Georgetown Pike & Old Dominion Drive. The park entrance will re-open as soon as space becomes available. For updated information about parking, call Visitor Center at 703-757-3101
+2 more active alerts





Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
Located in Virginia, Great Falls Park preserves a remarkably unique landscape. Unlike typical tourist hubs, this park is cherished by locals and outdoor enthusiasts for its quiet trails, scenic views, and raw natural beauty.
About Great Falls Park
Great Falls Park is a park located in Virginia. The Washington, D.C. area has a four-season Mid-Atlantic climate. Summer is hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy. Precipitation averages 2-4β monthly, year-round. The average temperature in summer is about 75 degrees F. Summer days in the mid-90's with high humidity are not uncommon. Winters vary in temperature, with the average temperature about 36 degrees F. Snow is rare. When it snows, it tends to melt within a few days.
From I-495, take exit 44 for route 193 west; continue 4 miles. Turn right on Old Dominion Drive.
π° Entrance Fees & Passes
The general entrance fee for Great Falls starts at $10 (which commonly covers entry for a single private vehicle and passengers for up to 7 consecutive days). The park offers several fee options: Entrance - Private Vehicle ($20), Entrance - Motorcycle ($15), Entrance - Per Person ($10), Entrance - Non-commercial Groups ($100), Commercial Entrance - Van ($40), Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus ($40), Commercial Entrance - Sedan ($25), Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach ($100). If you plan to visit multiple national parks this year, purchasing the America the Beautiful National Parks Annual Pass ($80) is highly cost-effective, as general entry to most parks will quickly offset the pass cost.
π₯Ύ Things to Do
Great Falls Park offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Guided Tours, Hiking, Paddling, Kayaking, and 1 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
π¦ Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Great Falls
π Visitor Planning Tips for Great Falls
- βBeat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Great Falls before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- βMonitor Active Alerts: There are currently 3 active alerts for Great Falls. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- βLeave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Great Falls. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
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.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Great Falls
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer β National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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