Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
SELF-GUIDED AUDIO TOUR:
(Activation Code included in Ticket)
Amble along the cliffs overlooking the Potomac River, taking in thundering waterfalls, exciting rock climbing excursions, and the region’s most perilous kayaking spots. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll have an opportunity to explore a few hidden gems found on the Great Falls Park trails. I’ll also show you one of my favorite, wilder paths at the national park - all guided step-by-step through GPS.
You’ll see that there’s much more to Great Falls than its viewing platforms. You'll see areas tourists don't know about, including views of hidden waterfalls, the region's best rock climbing and rappelling spots, and a route along the canal and through an abandoned colonial-era city. There are also several opportunities to go off-trail to get up-close with the rapids at the falls.
This tour can take up to two hours and, while it’s not especially strenuous, it’s plenty exciting!
Note: Parking at Great Falls is not included.
Available options
Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park
What's included
Audio Tour - GPS triggered and hands free
Detailed itinerary
1
This is a SELF-GUIDED Audio Tour of Great Falls National Park.
The self-guided audio tour begins at the Great Falls Visitor Center.
Great Falls Park - the 3rd largest waterfalls in the United States, and one of the largest national parks immediately accessible to Washington DC. With a $20 vehicle access pass (not included in Viator package), you will have full access to the extensive Great Falls Park grounds and trails.
The Viator package includes a guided step-by-step audio tour, including a walking map that syncs to your phone's GPS, as well as a narrated tour with over an hour of commentary about Great Falls and its hidden treasures.
To ensure an ideal self-guided tour:
Because cell phone service can be less than ideal, please download the VoiceMap app and Great Falls Tour before entering Great Falls Park grounds.
When using the VoiceMap app, please enable GPS/Location to enable the GPS triggered tour.
2
An abandoned city once visited by the United States' first president, George Washington. Walk through the ruins of a long forgotten piece of American history.
3
The third largest waterfalls in the United States. A must see if you're in the Washington DC area. You'll have 3 different viewing platforms for these amazing waterfalls. You'll also have views over the Mather Gorge downstream of the falls, as well as a view of hikers attempting the perilous Billy Goat Trail cliffs and Potomac River cliff rappelling, including Romeo's Ladder and Juliet's Balcony.
What's not included
Private transportation
Parking Fees
$20 vehicle access pass
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.2
13 reviews
5★
9
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Self-Guided Audio Tour. No Tour Guide.
Cell Phone is required, headphones recommended
Parking ($20) is NOT included
Please download the app prior to entering Great Falls Park
Meeting point
Self-guided audio tour starting at Great Falls Park Visitor's Center. Download the VoiceMap App, load the Great Falls Park tour and start at the Visitor's Center.
Includes step-by-step directions and map for the tour, all synced to your phone's GPS.
Please download/activate GPS before entering Park
Important notes
Your audio tour code: EXPLORE1
If you have several visitors in your group, your group can enter the same code to access the audio tour.
To access the self-guided tour, please download the free VoiceMap App (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store), and enter the above tour code.
VoiceMap Download (Apple): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/voicemap-audio-tours/id852027939
VoiceMap Download (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=me.voicemap.android&hl=en_US&gl=US
Please download Voicemap and the Great Falls tour before arriving at Great Falls Park - the download speed will be much faster when you are on wi-fi.
Before entering the tour code, you’ll need to make a VoiceMap profile to redeem the tour. Your code is listed above.
Once the tour is downloaded, it can be viewed under your VoiceMap Account - just select the tour and press start once you have arrived at the Great Falls Visitor's Center GPS location.
We recommend downloading the VoiceMap app and the audio tour before entering Great Falls Park, as the cell phone service inside the park can be less than reliable. Please also enable GPS/location when using the VoiceMap app. If your location is enabled in the app before entering Great Falls Park, your phone will be able to accurately use GPS even if you lose cell phone signal.
Bring some headphones and a water bottle - it's going to be a great day!
Happy hiking!
Note: Parking at Great Falls is NOT included, but can be purchased ahead of time on the National Park Service website:
https://www.nps.gov/grfa/planyourvisit/fees.htm
If your code is not working, the audio tour can be purchased directly through the following link:
https://voicemap.me/tour/washington-d-c/great-falls-park-a-circular-hike-along-the-potomac-river
If you purchased directly from VoiceMap, please send us a message letting us know, so we can remove the duplicate booking on TripAdvisor.
About Maryland
Maryland, nestled in the Mid-Atlantic region, offers a diverse landscape from the Atlantic coast to rolling farmlands and bustling cities. Known for its historic sites, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood, it's a compact yet varied destination that has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Inner Harbor
The Inner Harbor is a historic seaport and iconic landmark in Baltimore, offering a mix of attractions, dining, and shopping. It's a must-visit for first-time visitors.
Historical/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary in cost
Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island is a barrier island known for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature/Beach
Full day or overnight
Free entry, camping fees apply
Antietam National Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield is the site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history during the Civil War. It's a somber and educational experience for history buffs.
Historical
Half day
Free entry
Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and winter sports.
Nature/Adventure
Full day or overnight
Varies by activity, some free trails
Annapolis
Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is known for its historic charm, beautiful waterfront, and the United States Naval Academy.
Historical/Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary in cost
Must-Try Local Dishes
Maryland Crab Cakes
Made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these crab cakes are a must-try when in Maryland. They are typically served with a side of tartar sauce or remoulade.
Appetizer
Contains seafood and gluten (from breadcrumbs)
Old Bay
Old Bay is a famous seasoning blend used in Maryland cuisine, particularly in crab dishes and seafood boils. It adds a unique flavor to many local dishes.
Seasoning
Contains celery, which may be a concern for those with allergies
Smith Island Cake
A traditional Maryland dessert, Smith Island Cake is an eight-layer cake filled with fudge frosting. It's a sweet treat that's perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs
Crab Soup
A creamy and flavorful soup made with blue crab meat, vegetables, and seasonings. It's a comforting dish that's popular in Maryland, especially during the colder months.
Soup
Contains seafood, dairy, and may contain gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking
Boating and water sports
Skiing and snowboarding
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Museum visits
Historical tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and vibrant fall foliage. These periods are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, French
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET), UTC-5 (Standard Time), UTC-4 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Maryland is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to avoid transportation scams
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards, and monitor your accounts for any unauthorized transactions
Getting there
By air
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport • 15 km from Baltimore city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 65 km from Baltimore
By train
Baltimore Penn Station, BWI Rail Station
By bus
Baltimore Downtown Bus Terminal, Greyhound Bus Station (Baltimore)
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro Subway is clean, efficient, and connects major points in Baltimore. It's a convenient way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fells Point
Mount Vernon
Federal Hill
Hampden
Day trips
Washington D.C.
65 km from Baltimore • Half day to full day
Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States and offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and political attractions. It's a must-visit destination for first-time visitors to the East Coast.
Chesapeake Bay
Varies by location, typically 30-60 km from major cities • Full day or overnight
Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It's a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Gettsyburg National Military Park
120 km from Baltimore • Full day
Gettsyburg National Military Park is the site of the famous Civil War battle and the location of President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. It's a somber and educational experience for history buffs.
Festivals
Maryland Renaissance Festival • August to October (weekends)
Preakness Stakes • Mid-May (third Saturday)
Maryland State Fair • September (10 days)
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Explore the Chesapeake Bay for a unique and scenic experience, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing
- Take advantage of free or low-cost attractions, such as museums, historic sites, and outdoor activities
- Try local seafood dishes, such as crab cakes, crab soup, and Old Bay-seasoned seafood, for an authentic Maryland culinary experience
- Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around cities and attractions, and avoid the hassle of driving and parking
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
