Great Falls National Park is one of my favorite ‘getaways’ from urban Washington, DC, and it’s only about twenty minutes away! I always find it a little hard to believe that this much nature exists just a few miles from our nation’s capital.

You can access the beautiful Great Falls from both Maryland and Virginia – each state is on each side of the river and falls. I love exploring all of the hiking trails, as there are all levels/lengths of hikes throughout the park. One of my favorite things to do is take a picnic and then go on a hike, following the river southward. The falls itself are so grand, and it’s fun to spot advanced kayakers trying to make their way down the falls.

It’s a great outdoor activity with friends, and it’s especially beautiful in the Fall when all of the leaves are turning. I’ve gone about a dozen times throughout the years, and I always feel refreshed and invigorated.