Great Falls Park

Water pouring down rocks at Great Falls — Great Falls, VirginiaPhoto: NPS

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.

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News

Find Your Fall: Explore National Parks Across the Greater Capital Region 2026-09-22
You don’t have to travel far to find spectacular fall color. National parks across the Washington, D.C., region offer countless ways to experience autumn, from mountain trails and Potomac River views to historic battlefields, urban forests and the National Mall.

Photos

Water rushes over jagged rocks — The Potomac River rushes down the Great Falls on the Virginia-Maryland border.Photo: NPS

Great Falls with a purple sky near dusk — Great Falls in the EveningPhoto: NPS

An aerial shot of the Great Falls. — An aerial shot of Great Falls.Photo: NPS

Water rushing over rocks — A view of Great Falls from VirginiaPhoto: NPS

Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.