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On a snowy weekend morning in January the family headed out to Riverbend Park for a walk along the Potomac River. Riverbend Park, located in Great Falls (Virginia), is maintained by Fairfax County and provides miles of trails that wind through the woods along the Potomac River. The park has some very nice facilities. There is a nice visitor's center that contains basic information on the area including some live animals and a good display on the native tribe.
Outside of the visitor's center there are a couple of covered picnic tables, a huge observation deck with chairs and a large outdoor picnic area. There is an additional picnic area just across the street next to the larger parking area. The visitor's center is next to a boat launching ramp. The site of the ramp used to be a ferry that would take you to the Maryland side of the river. This was the closest crossing to Washington, D.C. after passing the Great Falls and is the one that President Madison used to return to the District after the burning of Washington.
We had a very enjoyable (if cold) walk in the woods. I can't wait to return in the spring when it is a bit warmer! Entrance is free and the trails wind for miles through the woods. Basic snacks can be purchased in the visitor's center and there is a restroom on the observation deck. This is one of the most beautiful places in Virginia during the spring and autumn. I highly recommend a visit if the opportunity arises.
