Great Falls Loop

Trails Virginia Great Falls Loop

Virginia · Fairfax County

Great Falls Loop

Classic loop combining river overlooks and woodland sections.

Rating

Length

4.6 mi

Difficulty

6

County

Fairfax

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Estimated total time: Varies

Great Falls Overlook Loop MD

Short scenic walk to major overlooks above Great Falls.

Time not available

Potomac Heritage Trail

Riverside corridor trail with rocky sections and overlooks.

Time not available

Billy Goat Trail Section A

Iconic Potomac scramble with exposed rocks and river views.

Time not available

About This Trail

Combining the River Trail, Ridge Trail, and Difficult Run along the Potomac, this loop skirts Mather Gorge’s rocky edge with three major waterfall overlooks. Great Falls Park’s six-trail network showcases the dramatic Potomac cascades just minutes from Washington, D.C.

Location

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Coordinates: 38.9985, -77.254

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Getting There

From McLean, take Georgetown Pike east to the Great Falls Park entrance at 9200 Old Dominion Drive. Alternatively, park at the Difficult Run parking area on Georgetown Pike for the Great Falls Loop via Ridge and River trails.

Nearby Trails

Great Falls Overlook Loop MD

Short scenic walk to major overlooks above Great Falls.

Potomac Heritage Trail

Riverside corridor trail with rocky sections and overlooks.

Billy Goat Trail Section A

Iconic Potomac scramble with exposed rocks and river views.

Billy Goat Trail Section B

Shorter rugged section along the Potomac near Great Falls.

Billy Goat Trail Section C

Popular moderate loop with river overlooks and rock gardens.

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