Great Falls

Great Falls is a series of waterfalls and rapids in the Potomac River near McLean, Virginia. The water plunges about 76 feet (23 meters) across a distance of less than one mile (1.6 kilometers) through steep rocky channels.

George Washington authorized the Patowmack Canal in the 18th century, which included five locks to help boats pass around the falls. This was an early effort to make the river navigable for commerce and transport.

The park's three viewing platforms were built at different heights to let visitors experience the power of the Potomac from multiple angles. Each platform shows the river in a different way, from the roaring water below to the broader landscape stretching downstream.

Swimming and wading are not allowed in the park because of strong currents and dangerous water conditions. Stay on marked trails and watch your step, especially when rocks are wet or icy.

The rock formations here are around 750 million years old, made of metamorphosed rock types like schist and gneiss. These ancient stones reveal the deep geological story beneath the modern landscape.

GPS coordinates: 41.96257,-73.37207

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:40