Great Falls - Olmsted Island

Potomac, MD

A series of boardwalk bridges connects the Maryland shore to Olmsted Island, putting visitors directly above the churning Great Falls gorge - the closest vantage to the falls.

Photography Guide

Best Time: any
Crowds: Busy
Shot Types: waterfallwidelong-exposure
Best Seasons: springfall

Practical Tips

The main overlook on Olmsted Island is 50 yards from the falls. Spring flood-stage water creates a roar you feel in your chest. Spray may hit your lens - bring a cloth.

Gallery

Nearby Places

Overlooks

Potomac, MD

Great Falls - Billy Goat Trail

The Great Falls of the Potomac is one of the most dramatic waterfall scenes in the eastern US - churning whitewater rapids cutting through billion-year-old Mather Gorge.

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Hidden Gems

Potomac, MD

C&O Canal at Great Falls

The original 1830s stone locks and lock house at Great Falls form a perfectly preserved 19th-century industrial waterscape along the canal towpath.

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Overlooks

McLean, VA

Great Falls Park

The Virginia side of Great Falls offers more dramatic overlook perspectives of the churning Potomac gorge than the Maryland side, with three overlooks at different heights.

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