Parks / Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park

Park · VA

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.

Official NPS page →

Current Alerts (2)

Park Closure

Aid Box Rock Climbing Area Closed

The Aid Box rock climbing area is temporarily closed due to a recent rock topple.

Information

Temporary Closures of Park Entrance Possible if Parking Lots Become Full

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

Entrance Fees

Passes are non-transferrable, non-refundable, not replaceable if lost or stolen, and are void if altered or reproduced. After purchasing your online pass at nps.gov or recreation.gov, please download your pass (QR code) BEFORE arriving at the park! There is limited cell service on site and you may have difficulty downloading once at the park. No cash is accepted for entry to the park. Accepted Forms of Payment: Charge Cards: Master Card, VISA, Discover, or American Express *No cash Admission to Great Falls Park is valid for seven consecutive days including date of purchase.

Upcoming Events

Commemorative Hikes for Great Falls Park's 60th Anniversary

Aug 31, 2026

Things to Do

Hike Algonkian Regional Park to Difficult Run

This hike is mostly wooded; some parts are rocky and some can be rocky. But you will see, in some places, exceptional displays of bluebells in spring and colors in autumn. Management partners include Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services; Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority; The Nature Conservancy; Fairfax County Park Authority; and National Park Service, all are aided by volunteers with the Potomac Heritage Trail Association and others.

Soak Up Spectacular Views at the Great Falls Overlooks

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.

Visitor Centers

Great Falls Park Visitor Center

Source: National Park Service.