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.

Nearly a half million people come to Great Falls Park each year. The park offers many recreational opportunities, from a picnic with family and friends, to a hike along the Potomac River.

Remember that swimming and wading in the Potomac are prohibited. Use caution while hiking near the river and cliffs.

The Visitor Center is open daily from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. A ten minute video presentation on the history of Great Falls Park is shown throughout the day.

Stop by the Visitor Center desk for trail maps, the self-guided tour of the Patowmack Canal, local information, pamplets on nearby parks, and information on recreational activities.

Explore a wide array of exhibits featuring the Patowmack Canal, geology, recreation, and the flora and fauna of Great Falls. An interactive children's room offers puzzles, coloring activities, and a hands-on exploration table.

Restrooms and a concession stand are located on the lower level. The concession stand is open seasonally from March to mid-November. The park's bookstore is open during Visitor Center hours.

Rapid snow melts and heavy rains have caused floods at Great Falls Park. Floods have helped to create the unique natural environment in the park. They are one of the reasons why several rare plant communities exist here.

Those big black birds you see flying above Great Falls Park are usually vultures. Turkey vultures, like the one in the photo, have red heads. The smaller black vulture's white wingtips are easily seen in flight.

Outdoor Activities

* Falls and River Viewing
* Bicycling
* Bird Watching
* Boating
* Climbing
* Fishing
* Hiking
* Horseback Riding
* Picnicking.

9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA.

>City(s) = Great Falls, McLean; State(s) = VA; Country = USA.
>Title = Great Falls Park - Potomac River, McLean, VA, US - Video.
>Keywords = Great Falls Park, Dominion Dr, McLean, VA, Potomac River, Mather Gorge, Patowmack Canal, Nations Capital, hiking cliffs, Visitor Center, trail maps, Turkey vultures, black vultures, ourtripvideos, our, trip, videos, crlapindfrn (206)
>Catg =