Georgia Waterfalls

Location:

Mountain City, GA

Highlights:

If you’re craving a quiet walk in nature with a scenic reward at the end, we’ve got just the spot for you. Nestled in Black Rock Mountain State Park, Ada-Hi Falls is the highest elevation waterfall in Georgia, offering a lush and serene escape.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful woodland retreat.

What we Love:

Dense Appalachian forest trails, seasonal wildflowers, tranquil vibes, and a charming overlook of a secluded cascade.

• Hike a short but steep trail through a shaded forest filled with rhododendrons, ferns, and wildflowers to reach the falls.
• Admire the falls from a wooden observation deck—most impressive after winter rains when water flows vigorously over the rocks.
• Explore the rich biodiversity of the north-slope cove, from lichen-covered stones to towering hardwoods and dense foliage.
• Remember the meaning of “Ada-Hi”—“forest” in Cherokee, a tribute to the area’s cultural and natural heritage.

Cost:

$5 per vehicle for a 1-day park pass; annual Georgia State Park passes also available.

Best time to visit:

Winter and early spring after rainfall for the best waterfall views.

Local tips:

The trail is short but steep—wear sturdy shoes and take your time on wet steps.

Distance:

2 hours from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Ada-Hi Falls:

From Atlanta, take I-85 North to I-985, continuing onto US-23 North toward Mountain City. Turn onto Black Rock Mountain Parkway to enter the state park. Follow signs for Ada-Hi Falls trailhead, located near the park’s visitor center.

Address:

Black Rock Mountain State Park, 3085 Black Rock Mountain Pkwy, Mountain City, GA 30562
Phone: 706-746-2141

Location:

Dawsonville, GA

Highlights:

If you’re in the mood for epic mountain views and a jaw-dropping waterfall, this is the spot we always rave about. Amicalola Falls is Georgia’s tallest waterfall, plunging 729 feet through a lush, forested canyon in the heart of the North Georgia mountains.

Recommended For:

Hikers, families, nature photographers, and anyone seeking a memorable outdoor escape with a splash of adventure.

What we Love:

Sweeping views from multiple trails, the sound of tumbling water echoing through the woods, and lodging options ranging from cozy cabins to mountaintop lodges and a hike-in backcountry inn.

• Explore seven stunning cascades on the accessible 2.1-mile Amicalola Falls Trail or tackle more challenging hikes with rewarding overlooks.
• Stay at the mountaintop lodge or venture 5 miles by foot to the Len Foote Hike Inn—Georgia’s only backcountry eco-lodge.
• Discover a wide variety of wildlife, mountain flora, and year-round scenic views in Amicalola Falls State Park’s 829 acres.
• Learn about Cherokee heritage—the name “Amicalola” comes from a word meaning “tumbling waters.”

Cost:

$5 per vehicle for a 1-day park pass; annual Georgia State Park passes available.

Best time to visit:

Late winter through spring for peak waterfall flow and cooler hiking temps.

Local tips:

Arrive early to beat the crowds, and bring water—the stairs can be a real workout!

Distance:

1 hour and 30 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Amicalola Falls:

From Atlanta, take GA-400 North to GA-136 West toward Dawsonville. Follow signs for Amicalola Falls State Park. The main entrance and visitor center will guide you to trailheads and the falls overlook.

Address:

Amicalola Falls State Park, 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Phone: 706-265-8888

Romantic Waterfalls

Location:

Rabun County, GA

Highlights:

If you're looking for a peaceful forest hike with not one, but two waterfalls, we’ve got just the trail for you. Ammons Creek Falls is a 100-foot cascade tucked into the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, perfect for a refreshing outdoor escape.

Recommended For:

Waterfall chasers, casual hikers, nature lovers, and families seeking a scenic loop trail adventure.

What we Love:

The gentle forest loop, dual waterfall access, and the peaceful wooden overlook where you can just sit and soak it all in.

• Hike a moderate 1.75-mile loop trail to take in both Ammons Creek Falls and the nearby 120-foot Holcomb Creek Falls.
• Start from two trailheads: one at Hale Ridge & Overflow Roads and the other just beyond a bridge on Overflow Road—offering a gentler approach.
• Admire the waterfalls from a scenic wooden observation deck tucked into a forest of hardwoods and rhododendrons.
• Enjoy the sounds of rushing water and birdsong on a peaceful, less-trafficked trail in the Tallulah Ranger District.

Cost:

Free; no parking or entrance fees required.

Best time to visit:

Spring for wildflowers and active water flow; fall for colorful foliage and crisp air.

Local tips:

Bring a map or GPS—cell service is spotty and trail signage is minimal.

Distance:

2 hours and 20 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Ammons Creek Falls:

From Clayton, GA, take Warwoman Road east for about 10 miles. Turn left onto Hale Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 7) and continue 7 miles to the trailhead at Hale Ridge & Overflow Roads, or go a bit further past the bridge for the gentler trail access.

Address:

Tallulah Ranger District, Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia

Location:

Helen, GA

Highlights:

If you want big beauty without a big hike, this one’s a favorite we always recommend. Anna Ruby Falls offers twin waterfalls tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, just a short walk from the trailhead near Unicoi State Park.

Recommended For:

Families, casual hikers, nature photographers, and anyone wanting scenic rewards without breaking a sweat.

What we Love:

A paved trail with big payoff views, twin waterfalls from mountain-fed streams, and that peaceful moment when you hear the creeks meet to form Smith Creek.

• Walk the half-mile Anna Ruby Falls Trail, a fully paved and shaded path to a spacious viewing platform.
• See Curtis Creek plunge 153 feet and York Creek drop 50 feet before joining to form the scenic Smith Creek.
• Visit the Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center for maps, info, and a cozy gift shop with local goods.
• Explore nearby trails in Unicoi State Park or continue waterfall-hopping to nearby Dukes Creek, DeSoto, and Raven Cliff Falls.

Cost:

$5 per person (16+); children 15 and under are free.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for full flow and vibrant greens; fall for colorful leaves and crisp air.

Local tips:

Go early or midweek for fewer crowds—this is a very popular stop year-round!

Distance:

1 hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Anna Ruby Falls:

From Helen, take GA-356 toward Unicoi State Park and follow signs to the Anna Ruby Falls Scenic Area. The entrance is separate from the state park and leads to a designated parking area and visitor center.

Address:

Unicoi State Park, 1788 Highway 356, Helen, GA 30545
Phone: 706-878-2201

Waterfalls for Families

Location:

Rabun County, GA

Highlights:

If you’re up for a scenic backroad adventure with a stunning payoff, this one’s a hidden gem we love to share. Bad Branch Falls is a uniquely slanted cascade tucked deep in the forest near Lake Rabun, perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of a drive.

Recommended For:

Adventurous explorers, solitude seekers, waterfall collectors, and those who enjoy peaceful forest drives.

What we Love:

The off-the-beaten-path feel, quirky rock angles of the falls, and the bonus views of Crow Creek Falls along the way.

• Drive 6 miles down Lake Rabun Road and another 3 miles on a winding gravel path surrounded by dense forest beauty.
• Watch for Lower and Upper Crow Creek Falls along the road—natural signposts that you’re getting close.
• Look for a small creek crossing the road; a short uphill trail just beyond leads to the falls.
• Marvel at the unique slanted rock formation over which the water glides, offering a different kind of waterfall view.

Cost:

Free; no entrance or parking fees required.

Best time to visit:

Spring or early summer for active water flow and easier access via dry roads.

Local tips:

This is a rough road—4WD is helpful, and avoid it after heavy rains. Bring bug spray and sturdy shoes!

Distance:

2 hours and 15 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Bad Branch Falls:

From Clayton, GA, head south on US-441 to Lake Rabun Road. Drive 6 miles, then turn onto the unpaved road near Crow Creek. Continue about 3 miles, keeping an eye out for Lower and Upper Crow Creek Falls. Bad Branch Falls is near a small creek, just uphill from the roadside.

Address:

Rabun County, Georgia

Location:

Clayton, GA

Highlights:

Looking for a quick but beautiful waterfall hike near town? Becky Branch Falls is an easy-to-reach 20-foot cascade tucked into the serene Warwoman Dell Valley, just minutes from downtown Clayton.

Recommended For:

Families, beginner hikers, history buffs, and trail enthusiasts exploring the Bartram Trail system.

What we Love:

Multiple access options, quick trail payoff, a picturesque forest setting, and the chance to continue your adventure toward Martin Creek Falls.

• Choose between two trails: the steep 0.6-mile Becky Branch Trail or the more gradual Bartram Trail with scenic switchbacks.
• Spot the waterfall flowing under a small footbridge just past the first parking lot—perfect for photos and a peaceful pause.
• Continue your hike on the Bartram Trail to reach Martin Creek Falls for a two-waterfall day trip.
• Relax in Warwoman Dell, a shaded historic site once home to Cherokee communities and later a Civilian Conservation Corps camp.

Cost:

Free; no entrance or parking fees.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for strongest flow and blooming forest scenery.

Local tips:

Trail can be muddy—wear good shoes. Parking fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early for best access.

Distance:

2 hours from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Becky Branch Falls:

From downtown Clayton, take Warwoman Road east to the Warwoman Dell Recreation Area. Park in the first lot, and the trailheads begin just beyond. Look for the footbridge over the stream as your landmark to the falls.

Address:

Warwoman Dell Valley, Clayton, GA

Waterfalls for Hikers

Location:

Tallulah Falls, GA

Highlights:

If you’re craving jaw-dropping views and a truly epic waterfall, this one’s a must. Caledonia Cascade, also known as Cascade Falls, is Georgia’s second tallest waterfall and plunges 600 feet into the heart of Tallulah Gorge.

Recommended For:

Waterfall chasers, experienced hikers, photographers, and anyone drawn to dramatic landscapes and scenic overlooks.

What we Love:

The tiered cascade’s towering drops, sweeping views from the gorge rim trail, and the immersive natural beauty of the surrounding state park.

• Marvel at three dramatic drops—the longest at 262 feet—as the falls spill into Tallulah Gorge from a narrow stream above.
• View the cascade from the North Rim Trail or several scenic overlooks along the Tallulah Gorge rim, especially after recent rains.
• Explore Tallulah Gorge State Park’s trails, suspension bridge, and educational interpretive center.
• Discover a rich ecosystem of forest, wildflowers, and wildlife within the dramatic gorge carved by the Tallulah River.

Cost:

$5 per vehicle for state park entry; free for Georgia State Park annual pass holders.

Best time to visit:

Late winter and spring for peak waterfall flow; fall for stunning foliage and clear canyon views.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars—views of the falls are from a distance, and they’re best seen from the rim after rainfall.

Distance:

1 hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Caledonia Cascade:

From Atlanta, take I-85 North to US-441 North toward Tallulah Falls. Enter Tallulah Gorge State Park and follow signs to the North Rim trails and overlook points with views of Caledonia Cascade.

Address:

Tallulah Falls, Rabun County, Georgia

Location:

Rising Fawn, GA

Highlights:

If you love a good “wow” moment with your hike, this one delivers in a big way. Cherokee Falls is a 60-foot cascade tucked deep within the dramatic canyons of Cloudland Canyon State Park—one of the most scenic places in all of Georgia.

Recommended For:

Adventure seekers, photographers, families with active kids, and anyone who doesn’t mind a stair-heavy hike for a big scenic reward.

What we Love:

That first glimpse of the falls after descending into the gorge, the towering cliffs of Daniel Creek Gorge, and the pure serenity of the waterfall’s pool.

• Hike the Waterfalls Trail—a steep stair descent into the canyon—to reach Cherokee Falls and its gorgeous plunge pool.
• Continue to nearby Hemlock Falls for a two-for-one waterfall hike, perfect for active mornings or photo outings.
• Experience the incredible canyon views, lush forested trails, and some of the highest annual rainfall in the state—perfect for waterfall flow.
• Stay in the park’s cottages, yurts, or campsites if you want to linger and explore more of Lookout Mountain.

Cost:

$5 per vehicle for park entry; annual Georgia State Park passes available.

Best time to visit:

After heavy rainfall in spring or fall for peak waterfall flow and cooler hiking temps.

Local tips:

There are a lot of stairs—bring water, wear supportive shoes, and pace yourself, especially on the way back up.

Distance:

2 hours from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Cherokee Falls:

From Atlanta, take I-75 North to GA-136 West, following signs to Cloudland Canyon State Park. Enter the park and follow the Waterfalls Trail signs to the main trailhead near the picnic area and interpretive center.

Address:

Cloudland Canyon State Park, 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Phone: 706-657-4050

Falls For Photographers

Location:

Dawsonville, GA

Highlights:

If you’re the type who seeks out secret spots and doesn’t mind a rough route, this one’s an epic find. Cochrans Falls is a towering, 600-foot cascade tucked deep in the remote hills near Dawsonville, making it one of Georgia’s tallest and most elusive waterfalls.

Recommended For:

Experienced hikers, wilderness adventurers, thrill seekers, and waterfall enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds.

What we Love:

The sense of discovery, dramatic vertical drops, and the untamed wilderness feel that makes this spot feel truly off-the-grid.

• Reach the falls by following a jeep track from Blackhawk Road along Cochrans Creek into the forested Cochran Creek Valley.
• Climb a rugged, unofficial goat path along the right side of the falls—extremely steep and slippery, best for experienced trekkers only.
• Marvel at the tallest drop near the top, one of the highest single plunges in the state, set in wild, rugged terrain.
• Experience complete seclusion—no official signs, no crowds, just you and the roar of the falls.

Cost:

Free; no entrance or parking fees, but no official parking lot either—park safely and respectfully along roadside.

Best time to visit:

Late winter through spring after rain, when water flow is strongest and trails are less overgrown.

Local tips:

Only attempt the upper falls climb if you are an experienced hiker with proper footwear—it's steep, unmaintained, and potentially dangerous.

Distance:

1 hour and 20 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to Cochrans Falls:

From Dawsonville, head west on GA-136, then turn onto Blackhawk Road. Drive to the end of the paved road, where you’ll see a jeep trail—this leads into the Cochran Creek Valley. The trail to the falls is unmarked and rugged; proceed only if prepared and confident in backcountry navigation.

Address:

Dawsonville, Cochran Creek Valley, Dawson County, Georgia

Location:

Blairsville-Cleveland, GA

Highlights:

If you're looking for a scenic, beginner-friendly hike with waterfall views and a touch of history, this one checks all the boxes. DeSoto Falls is a triple-tiered waterfall tucked into the Chattahoochee National Forest, named for explorer Hernando de Soto.

Recommended For:

Families, casual hikers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a peaceful forest walk with big scenic payoffs.

What we Love:

Gentle trails alongside Frogtown Creek, three different cascades to discover, and a deep connection to Georgia’s early exploration history.

• Hike the 2.2-mile round-trip DeSoto Falls Trail, an easy-to-moderate forest walk to reach both the lower and upper falls.
• Admire the triple-drop layout: Upper DeSoto Falls plunges 200 feet, the middle falls drops 90 feet, and the lower falls flows 35 feet into a serene streambed.
• Explore the shaded Frogtown Creek trail, ideal for hot days, with picnic spots and streamside resting points along the way.
• Learn about the area’s history—De Soto is said to have passed through this very region in the 1500s.

Cost:

$5 per vehicle for day use at the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for strong flow and wildflowers; fall for crisp air and golden leaves.

Local tips:

The trail is well-marked and easy, but bring bug spray in warmer months and get there early on weekends to secure parking.

Distance:

1 hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta, GA

How to Get to DeSoto Falls:

From Cleveland or Blairsville, take US-129 to the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area entrance in Chattahoochee National Forest. Park in the designated lot and follow the trail signs to the lower and upper falls.

Address:

Chattahoochee National Forest, US-129, Blairsville-Cleveland, GA