Not all fairy tales involve castles. Some are set in nature, maybe a dense forest, meadow, or close to a body of water. Great Falls National Park fits the description of a fairy tale location. Visitors leave here in awe of the power, beauty, and magic of nature.

Great Falls National Park is located a mere 15 miles from Washington D.C.

Phototreat/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images The park spans 800 acres and is protected under the National Park Service.

This protected park has been a part of human history for thousands of years.

Great Falls Park/Facebook Ancient people would fish and trade here. And, in more modern times, there was a town and an amusement park. It is a place for both historical and natural preservation.

The Potomac River swiftly and powerfully spills over the steep craggy rocks, forming what is known as the Great Falls.

drnadig/ E+ via Getty Images This is perhaps the biggest draw to the park. There’s nothing quite like the beauty of these falls.

Over 150 species of birds can be found around the park.

Great Falls Park/Facebook You may be lucky enough to spot an osprey or bald eagle. The visitor center has a checklist of birds for birdwatching guests.

Listen to the sounds of nature as you hike one of the many trails.

Lauren Brunk/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images The park has over 22 miles of hiking trails, some of which start on the Maryland side of the park. If you are into water sports, there is also a designated place for kayaking.

You may want to stay and watch the sunset at the falls, which is sure to be a magical experience!

HaizhanZheng/E+ via Getty Images The park closes about a half-hour after sunset, so plan accordingly.

 

Phototreat/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

The park spans 800 acres and is protected under the National Park Service.

Great Falls Park/Facebook

Ancient people would fish and trade here. And, in more modern times, there was a town and an amusement park. It is a place for both historical and natural preservation.

drnadig/ E+ via Getty Images

This is perhaps the biggest draw to the park. There’s nothing quite like the beauty of these falls.

You may be lucky enough to spot an osprey or bald eagle. The visitor center has a checklist of birds for birdwatching guests.

Lauren Brunk/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

The park has over 22 miles of hiking trails, some of which start on the Maryland side of the park. If you are into water sports, there is also a designated place for kayaking.

HaizhanZheng/E+ via Getty Images

The park closes about a half-hour after sunset, so plan accordingly.

You will be enchanted by a visit to the Great Falls no matter what time of year you choose to visit. See for yourself why this national park in Virginia is so special.

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Address: Great Falls, VA, USA