Description
This site provides significant natural drama as the stark relief of the falls delineates the cascading waters. This is the most dramatic example of the Fall Line in Virginia, which is the major escarpment separating the Coastal Plain from the Piedmont. The beauty of the venue is exceptional. The old canal bed that was once used to portage around the falls still exists, providing historical elements of interest here. Birdlife here takes advantage of the variety of habitats provided at the site: floodplain woodlands, bedrock terraces, swamps, open areas, and upland deciduous forests. Birds of prey are continually aloft, providing consistent viewing opportunities.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Great Falls Park:
- Canada Goose
- Mallard
- Ring-necked Duck
- Common Merganser
- Bald Eagle
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Blue Jay
206 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 31 Jan 2026 | 23 | Pete Huffer |
| 31 Jan 2026 | 23 | Marjorie Copson |
| 31 Jan 2026 | 12 | Christine Ley |
| 30 Jan 2026 | 38 | Steve Bielamowicz |
| 24 Jan 2026 | 10 | Isabel Vander Stoep |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
Other Site Amenities: Bike Trails
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 9200 Old Dominion Dr., McLean, VA 22102
From Previous Site on Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
From Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, turn right and continue on SR 193 west for 3.9 miles. Turn right at the traffic light onto Old Dominion Road. The park is 1.0 mile from the light, at the end of the road.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.