Great Falls Overlook Loop MD

Trails Maryland Great Falls Overlook Loop MD

Maryland · montgomery County

Great Falls Overlook Loop MD

Short scenic walk to major overlooks above Great Falls.

Rating

Length

1.5 mi

Difficulty

3

County

montgomery

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Estimated total time: Varies

Great Falls Loop

Classic loop combining river overlooks and woodland sections.

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

A flat, family-friendly walk along the historic C&O Canal towpath to the Great Falls Overlook on Olmsted Island, where the Potomac plunges through dramatic cascades. Massive sycamore trees shade the path through this lush riverside forest.

Location

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Coordinates: 39.0002153, -77.248163

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Getting There

From Potomac, take MacArthur Boulevard to the Great Falls Tavern parking lot on the C&O Canal. Walk the towpath south to the Olmsted Island Bridges trailhead, which leads to the Great Falls Overlook. A $10 parking fee applies.

Nearby Trails

Great Falls Loop

Classic loop combining river overlooks and woodland sections.

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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