Great Falls Park

The Potomac River rushes down the Great Falls on the Virginia-Maryland border.
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.
Map showing location of park.
Water pouring down rocks at Great Falls
Photo by NPS
Water rushes over jagged rocks
Photo by NPS
Great Falls with a purple sky near dusk
Photo by NPS
An aerial shot of the Great Falls.
Photo by NPS
Water rushing over rocks
Photo by NPS