Hiking in Great Falls, Virginia

A couple weeks ago, my two friends and I visited Great Falls Park, a 800-acre park located 15 minutes away from D.C. You can visit either the Maryland side or the Virginia side, as Great Falls is where the Potomac River picks up speed over steep, large rocks and creates a beautiful scene in nature.

While I love the Billy Goat Trail on the Maryland side (it has some intense trails!), we opted to explore the Virginia side. From stopping to enjoy the views to hiking several miles along the river, it was a perfect way to get outside and have some great conversation.

These views are from The River Trail, which goes right along the Potomac River for about 1.5 miles, then hiking back to the visitor center added some more distance on our hike. This is a moderate hike, with parts at the end that go up hill. We spotted some blue herons, a frog and other wildlife as we explored. Going over bridges and up and down rocks, we saw some small waterfalls and creeks.

It was a refreshing time to get moving and think about the history and nature all around us.

[bctt tweet=”Get outside in nature and go hiking, good for the heart, good for the soul! “]

If you are wanting to hike in the D.C.-area, Great Falls is an excellent option, with 15 trails throughout the area (some for biking and horseback, as well). Cost to park is $10/vehicle, but besides that it is a pleasant and inexpensive way to spend an afternoon or morning.

Related Post: A Day in DC: Monuments, Food & Museums 

Do you guys like hiking? What is one way that you are going to add adventure to your summer?

P.S. Check out 12 Ways to Add Adventure to Your Day!