Great park with something for everyone!

I loved being able to do a short hike with a great rewards today.
I did the Olmested Island trail which is a short trail from the Tavern that leads to a boardwalk and the overlook. If you continue the boardwalk it leads to a 2nd overlook with spectacular views. The trail is easily accessible and can accommodate strollers and wheelchairs if needed. Bicycles are welcome as well.

There were plenty of benches for sitting,

I loved the wide and clean trails I saw. There were plenty of signage on the parts I came across.

It was not as crowded when I visited and it led to great views and an opportunity to enjoy the serenity!

Dogs are welcome but need to be leased and cleaned up after. Restrooms are older but stocked and fairly clean. At the parking area is a refreshment shed with plenty of picnic areas and a vending machine.

There were two ice cream trucks on site with additional refreshments, drinks, smoothies, hot dogs, etc.

The office was closed when we arrived and we did not have to pay for parking on this end.

I’d love to return to do more of this park.

National Park in an urban setting with scenic trails for all ages. We hiked the Billy goat trail which is rocky and has some steep inclines at places, but my 8 year old had fun doing it. Worth buying the annual National park pass if you plan on visiting other parks or come back to this one.

The view is worth the hike! Be aware that many pet owners do not clean up after their dogs even though there are bags available to use. $20 entry fee. 🧾 Definitely bring water to stay hydrated. I enjoyed the sounds of nature. 🏞️

Enjoyed a beautiful fall Sunday afternoon. Walking paths were wide open...so nice to see all sorts of visitors enjoying the natio al park. I live near the Williamsport C&O headquarters and had never been this far south. We will definitely be coming back!

Great overlook to the Great Falls. It is a reasonable small hike from the Tavern. In summer, there is canal boat tour, the boat is pulled by mules. What I liked most is the Billy goat trail. It is a rather difficult trail which runs on the boulder along the Potomac River Gorge, plus a small section of rock scramble, but the view is marvelous especially in the fall.