A Local Secret: Why I Love Riverbend Park

When people think of Great Falls, Virginia, they usually think of the famous Great Falls Park. It’s absolutely stunning and a must-see if you’re visiting the area. But one of my favorite parks in Great Falls is Riverbend Park.

I’m fortunate to visit Riverbend Park several times a week and get to see it in all four seasons. I love watching the changes as the months go by. 

In the spring, the trail comes alive with color as Virginia bluebells line the path. Every year, Riverbend hosts a Bluebell Festival to celebrate them. The blooms don't last long and I always make sure I see them a few times before they fade away. 

In the summer, you can rent kayaks, go fishing, or even grab an ice cream at the visitors center after a day exploring. The trails are full of shade so it makes the heat bearable if you go for a hike. 

And of course, fall is special no matter where you are, but walking Riverbend’s trails surrounded by all those autumn colors is truly inspiring. Every step feels like magic. 

If you go in the winter, you’ll get something really special: the views are unobstructed by the greenery, and the park is so quiet. Most visitors save their trips for the warmer months, so in winter, you’ll have stretches of the trail entirely to yourself. One of my favorite things is going right after it snows or when the Potomac is filled with icy chunks. 

Riverbend also hosts part of the Potomac Heritage Trail. It hugs the Potomac River before climbing up and giving you an incredible vantage point high above the water. Every time I stand there, looking out across the river, I find myself wondering what it must have been like for people generations—or even centuries—ago to take in that same view. (Of course, nowadays, you can also look across and spot the former home of Dan Snyder!) And if you’re lucky and bring a good pair of binoculars you can even spot an eagle’s nest on the Maryland side from the trail. Most days in late winter, you can reliably see a pair of bald eagles perched nearby and in the nest, which is always such a treat.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, I highly recommend adding Riverbend Park to your list. It’s a place that’s beautiful, peaceful, and inspiring, no matter the season. You might just come to love it as much as me.