Easy Trip to Nature in NoVA - Great Falls National Park

Great Falls National Park

Living in Northern Virginia means a lot of cars, buildings, people, and other suburban miscellany. Don't get me wrong. There are a lot of good things about living here too. Northern Virginia has a lot of rich history and cultural opportunities. Unfortunately, escapes to nature are a bit tricky. They usually involve a lengthy car ride, but if you know where to look, you can find some hidden local gems like Great Falls National Park (@GreatFallsNPS on Twitter).

Great Falls has some amazing vistas, even in the haze of winter. It is hard not to appreciate the rushing water and falls.

There are about five miles of trails to hike (almost seven if you add in Riverbend State Park which is adjacent to Great Falls). My daughter, Sasha the Dog, and I visit on a regular basis because it is so easy to get to and is a moderately easy hike. There are a few places where you might need to climb over a few rocks to get the best view, but they aren't too bad.

Daughter and Sasha the Dog

It's a popular spot with kayakers and other water enthusiasts, though I am going to freely admit to thinking the paddle-boarder who was out on the water the week after Christmas is nuts nuts nuts. Dude, that water is COLD!

The only drawback to Great Falls is its popularity. It is very busy all the time. You don't get to turn a corner and feel like you've left the crowds behind. There are people everywhere. Luckily, the park crowds are a friendly lot. Sasha doesn't mind the crowds because there are so many people to stop and pet her.

Great Falls is our go-to, need a quick nature fix hiking spot. The views are fantastic, the trails are moderately challenging, and it is conveniently off several major roadways.

Over there is the People's Republic of Maryland. We don't go there.