Great Falls Overlooks Out and Back

This hike takes care of the main reason to go to Great Falls Park -- see the falls -- without actually driving into the Great Falls Park. An enjoyable alternative in its own right, Riverbend Park has a boat ramp, picnic facilities, and its own trail system. But today the main reason for visiting was to get a nice hike in, avoid the more crowded Great Falls parking area, and see the Falls just downstream. Down and back, no loop. The hike along the river was a little muddy after the previous night's rain, but easily passable on the wide trail. Mostly dirt and stones, there is one stretch of about a hundred yards with a lot of small rocks near the point where the trail enters Great Falls Park. Otherwise it's easy hiking down to the Great Falls visitor center and the three overlooks.