The topography of McLean is defined by the gently rolling hills characteristic of the Atlantic Seaboard fall line and the Piedmont plateau. Its elevation averages around 285 feet, but the terrain can vary significantly.
The most dramatic topographical features are found along its eastern and northern edges, where steep, rocky bluffs and palisades drop off sharply into the Potomac River gorge. The landscape is also etched with deep, stream-cut valleys, providing natural drainage into the river system. Because of these distinct elevation changes near the river, the area features numerous scenic overlooks and protected watershed zones.