Description
This site provides significant natural drama as the stark relief of the falls delineates the cascading waters. This is the most dramatic example of the Fall Line in Virginia, which is the major escarpment separating the Coastal Plain from the Piedmont. The beauty of the venue is exceptional. The old canal bed that was once used to portage around the falls still exists, providing historical elements of interest here. Birdlife here takes advantage of the variety of habitats provided at the site: floodplain woodlands, bedrock terraces, swamps, open areas, and upland deciduous forests. Birds of prey are continually aloft, providing consistent viewing opportunities.
Wildlife Sightings
207 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Great Falls Park:
- Canada Goose
- Mallard
- American Black Duck
- Ring-necked Duck
- Bufflehead
- Common Merganser
- Mourning Dove
- Ring-billed Gull
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Great Blue Heron
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Mar 2026 | 24 | Oskar Mattes |
| 2 Mar 2026 | 24 | Irene Vázquez |
| 1 Mar 2026 | 11 | Ameya Thatte |
| 1 Mar 2026 | 1 | Avery C |
| 1 Mar 2026 | 1 | whitney dyer 🕊️ |
Amenities & Accessibility
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Restrooms
Other Amenities: Bike Trails
Accessibility Considerations
This location does not have a Birdability Site Review available at this time
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 9200 Old Dominion Dr., McLean, VA 22102
From Previous Site on Great Falls Loop of VBWT:
From Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, turn right and continue on SR 193 west for 3.9 miles. Turn right at the traffic light onto Old Dominion Road. The park is 1.0 mile from the light, at the end of the road.
Site Information
Managed By:
- National Park Service
Access Requirements:
- Fee (see website for details), Daily, 7am - sunset
Contact Information:
- National Park Service: 703-757-3103
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.