Great Falls Overlook

The Great Falls Overlook offers a picture-esque view of the Great Falls of the Potomac River. Walk the scenic boardwalk through Olmstead Island, a rare and flourishing ecosystem of thousands of plants, animals, insects, and fish. The trailhead is less than a half mile from the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and is an easy 15-minute walk one-way.

Trail Details

Level: Easy
Type: Boardwalk (ADA accessible)
Length: 0.25 mile
Season(s): Open year-round
Pets: Not permitted

Parking

Parking for the Great Falls Overlook is located at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. An entrance fee is required to enter the park at Great Falls. The trail is a 0.5-mile walk from the Visitor Center.

Hiker Safety

• Do not leave the boardwalk or overlook.
• Do not climb down to the rocks or the river. The Potomac River is unpredictable and can be very dangerous.
• Cellphone coverage on Olmstead Island and the Overlook is not reliable. Stay with your group.

Leave No Trace

The Great Falls Overlook boardwalk crosses over a sensitive and rare ecosystem. Help maintain the intregrity and health of the ecosystem by staying on the boardwalk at all times. Leaving the boardwalk to walk on Olmstead Island is illegal and harmful to the native wildlife.

C&O Canal is a trash-free park. Garbage cans are not available along the boardwalk or on the overlook. Please keep your trash with you and dispose of it outside of the park.

Keep wildlife wild:

• Do not feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behavior, and exposes them to predators and other danger.
• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not approach, chase, or harass wildlife.