Great Falls Park

Important Notices

COVID-19 & the VBWTBefore heading out to visit a site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail, be sure to check if that site has any COVID-19 policies or closures in place. This information is typically posted on a site's own website.

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.

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.

Location & Directions

View on Google Maps

Site Information

  • Site Contact: National Park Service: 703-757-3103
  • Website
  • Access: Fee (see website for details), Daily, 7am - sunset

Birds Recently Seen at Great Falls Park (as reported to eBird)

  • Canada Goose
  • Mallard
  • American Black Duck
  • Ring-necked Duck
  • Greater Scaup
  • Bufflehead
  • Hooded Merganser
  • Common Merganser
  • Horned Grebe
  • Black Vulture

Seasonal Bird Observations

Facilities

  • Bike Trails
  • Environmental Study Area
  • Fee
  • Food
  • Information
  • Interpretive Trail
  • Parking
  • Phone
  • Picnic
  • Restrooms