Olmsted Island, River island in Potomac, Virginia, US.
Description
Olmsted Island is a river island in the Potomac River in Virginia with steep cliffs and rocky ground covered by forest. A wooden walkway crosses the southern part of the island and leads to a viewing platform overlooking Great Falls.
History
The island takes its name from Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., a landscape architect from a family of landscape designers. In 1972, Hurricane Agnes significantly changed the island's plant cover by removing large amounts of shrubs and trees.
Culture
The island bears the name of Frederick Law Olmsted Jr, a landscape architect whose father created New York's Central Park.
Practical
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is rocky and paths can be uneven in places. Access is limited to marked trails to protect the natural environment.
Did you know?
The island shelters several rare and endangered plant species within its protected habitat. This botanical diversity makes it a valuable refuge for local plant life.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Virginia).
Congressional Country Club
6.3 km
Great Falls Park
877 m
Billy Goat Trail
619 m
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
6.9 km
Great Falls
257 m
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
15.1 km
David Taylor Model Basin
5.7 km
TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm
4 km
American Legion Memorial Bridge
6.8 km
Mather Gorge
2.5 km
Scott's Run Nature Preserve
6 km
Colvin Run Mill
5 km
Virginia State Route 193
6.4 km
Great Falls Tavern
273 m
Swains Lock
3.7 km
Glenstone Museum
6.9 km
William Gunnell House
3.1 km
Spring Hill Farm
2 km
Cornwell Farm
2 km
Four Stairs
2.7 km
Great Falls Grange Hall and Forestville School
3.1 km
Edward Beale House
6.1 km
John Gunnell House
3.9 km
Glen Store and Post Office
6 km
Bedfordshire Park
6.3 km
Lock 14
6.7 km
Lock 19
148 m
Great Falls Community Library
3.2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes