Olmsted Island

"To conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."--Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. regarding the National Parks.

Just off the C & O Canal towpath, south of the old Tavern Visitor Center in Potomac Maryland, there is a raised boardwalk with a series of footbridges that leads to Olmsted Island. At the end of the walk is an overlook which affords a spectacular view of Great Falls.

Protecting rare plant species found only in this unique habitat by concentrating all foot traffic in one place, the 1/4 mile long boardwalk and the overlook embody the spirit of conservation expressed in the above quote. It is a very small footprint upon this large yet fragile landscape. Thanks to Mr. Olmsted and like-minded others and their inspired words and deeds, future generations will be able to enjoy all the many and various aspects of our National Parks, including this island, the flora and fauna within, and that wonderful view of those turbulent falls.

The images below are a small representation of this area. All were shot from either the boardwalk or the overlook.