I am not really a park kind of girl, but because my boyfriend wanted to go to Great Falls Park in McLean, Virginia, we planned a trip. We went on a nice, warm day around three p.m., which turned out to be a big mistake. There was a line that seemed to extend forever. I was aggravated by the long wait until I realized I was partially to blame. There is a single entrance into the park manned by a park ranger collecting the three dollar entrance fee. I did not have the cash, so I had to pay with a credit/debit card. The cashier was obviously frustrated by the seemingly endless line of patrons paying with their credit cards that made the process much more time consuming. Therefore, I suggest that everyone who visits Great Falls Park to bring cash.
Besides the time spent waiting in line, the trip to Great Falls was a wonderful experience. You will no doubt enjoy the three beautiful views of the Potomac River cascading over the jagged rocks as the water moves downstream. However, you will also be able to explore the massive 800-acre park at your own leisure from both sides of the Potomac, assuming you do not mind a long walk. You can hike, picnic, kayak, rock climb, bike, or try your hand at horseback riding. You can even use the park’s facilities and smoke pits to plan anything from a family cookout to a romantic, nature-themed wedding. It is a bit chilly now, but if you can catch a nice, warm day to go, then you will not be disappointed. For frequently asked questions, an in-depth history of the park, and other pertinent information, please visit the National Park Service’s website dedicated to Great Falls at http://www.nps.gov/archive/gwmp/grfa/extend/index.htm.
Welcome to Great Falls Park. (n.d.). Retrieved November 9, 2009, from
I think that I would definitely try to take a trip to visit this park. I am always looking for new places to go. It seems that it would be fun. I do not like rides and I would hate the long lines, but there seems to be quite a few other attractions that would keep my interest. I love the way that you have posted a picture to make this a more visual post, and I love the way that you added a poll. Great job!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you are testing out many of your DMV locales; this text has the feel of the work of journalists. Now, just a few descriptions of the hike itself!
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