Georgia is widely famous for its nice beaches. But you will be shocked after knowing that there are an estimated 700 waterfalls in Georgia. People who love to explore numerous waterfalls across the world, Georgia is a must-to-visit destination for them. North Georgia is filled with some jaw-dropping waterfalls, and it’s needless to say, each Georgia waterfall offers a unique experience to have. From easily accessible to hard-to-reach waterfalls, all are present in Georgia.
These Georgian waterfalls will really give you the hype that you are looking for. Georgia is located in the southeast of America. To plan a day trip in any of these waterfalls is gonna be a great option. Plus, many of these waterfalls offer some really amazing trails to hike and walk.
You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to watch these pretty waterfalls, and most of these trails are covered with wildflowers and dramatic atmosphere. Just reach there and enjoy great swimming, wading. Also, these waterfalls are dramatically increasing the beauty of the numerous state parks in which these falls are located in Georgia.
So, here is the list of some of the best waterfalls in Georgia that you must visit when you’re exploring the state.
1. Amicalola Falls
Amicalola Falls is located inside the Chattahoochee National Forest, it’s a bewildering green terrain. The falls is most popular for the hiking opportunity. It is the tallest waterfall in Georgia with 729 feet height and the third-highest cascading waterfall on the east of the Mississippi River. It could be a perfect destination for adventure lovers. Visitors like to spend their time by exploring different types of hikes.
Must explore Amicalola Falls State Park and its two-mile long Amicalola Falls Loop Trail. The waterfall boasts seven cascades at this state park, and the most desiring Appalachian Trail starts from the crest of this waterfall. If you want to skip the hike, you could park your car at the top and get the views of the waterfall from the bridge as well. But to get the most stunning glimpse from the different angles, you know what exactly you need to do.
Popular trails are West Ridge Falls Access Trail and East Ridge Trail. Because of its popularity, the terrain is always overcrowded. So, try to visit in the early morning.
For night staying you might choose either camping or hotel-style mountain-top lodges.
2. Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff Falls is located near the town of Helen. Helen itself is a great place to visit in Georgia. Raven Cliff Falls hike is moderately challenging, and it is five mile round-trip in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The hike is mostly suitable for active hikers, but the scenery of this trail is unforgettable that runs through a stream valley with little cascades.
After finishing the trail, you’ll catch the stunning views of the Dodd Creek. In this terrain, three other waterfalls are also viewable, though Dodd Creek Trail is the main attraction among a vast number of visitors. This waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Georgia, and you must make it your next weekend gateway destination with you friends or family. The swimming hole is perfect for refreshing your tired body!
3. Jacks River Falls
Jacks River Falls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Georgia. This secluded waterfall is very popular among hikers as the waterfall offers some really amazing hiking trails. Jacks River Falls plunges over a massive cliff and gradually falls into the deep pool below. Nine-miles of hiking trails on the Beech Bottom and the Cohutta Wilderness make it a heavenly creation! Beech Bottom Trail is the easiest route to reach the waterfall. Another characteristic of this trail is it’s covered with springtime wildflowers and cushiony grasses.
The beholding views of the crystal-clear water and the refreshing pool along with several river-crossings are surely going to allure you! Backpackers, camp lovers and advanced hikers can feel the place’s beauty of diversity. Lastly, this is one of the most-visited waterfalls among families with their little ones.
4. Long Creek Falls
Long Creek Falls is nestling close to Blue Ridge in Fannin County. The falls offers two-mile out-and-back hiking trail through a scenic and dramatic ambience. The trail covers several other smaller waterfalls along with a beautiful valley along the way. As the hiking trail is moderately challenging, avoid going there after heavy rainfall. The 50-foot waterfall cascades into a beautiful creek bed.
This waterfall is truly one of the best waterfalls in Georgia, despite having a location on the remote area. Long Creek Falls is on the Appalachian Trail near Three Forks.
Travelers like to make this spot their weekend getaway destination because of its amazing hiking trails. The most popular trails are Benton MacKaye Trail and Duncan Ridge Trail.
The spot is a great picnic place. You can easily set up your picnic arrangement on the scattered boulders. The terrain is filled with rhododendron and hemlock trees. And dogs are allowed on this trail. Lastly, must explore Chattahoochee National Forest to make your trip more exciting. It’s very close to Long Creek Falls.
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5. Panther Creek Falls
If you want to get an amazing waterfall experience without facing any challenging hike, this falls is for you. You need to cover only half-mile to experience this dramatic waterfall. Panther Creek Falls is located in Ruban County, Georgia and is within the Panther Creek Recreation Area. Recently, picnic areas are added in this place for making the visitors’ joy more delightful.
This waterfall covers another falls, Angel falls. If you are an adventurous person and a hike lover, must hike the Panther Creek Trail. The seven miles long trail will not disappoint you, for sure! The trail crosses multiple creeks and takes you to the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Nearby you’ll also get to see Minnehaha Falls. For offering so many breathtaking beauties at a single spot, it’s undoubtedly the state’s one of the most popular waterfalls. To experience the enchanting night in this forested area, backpacking adventure is a great option. Most of the visitors prefer to stay at night for making their trip more special and memorable!
6. High Shoals Falls
This pretty waterfall is located inside the Chattahoochee National Forest, and the hike is moderately challenging. High Shoals Falls is considered to be one of the prettiest waterfalls in Georgia. Families love to spend some relaxing time here. Kids also get to explore a variety of thrilling adventures.
The 2.4-mile-long round-head trek is covered with green canopy and a valley.
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7. Emery Creek Falls
Emery Creek Falls, the hidden gem, is located near the town of Ellijay. The hiking path is filled with lush vegetation. And you get to watch numerous scenic sights that include wildflowers with their mild fragrances, mushrooms, green moss, various creek crossings, and a beautiful forest. But the trail requires lots of patience, and it leads to a pair of beautiful waterfalls.
Carry extra pair of shoes and cloths as you will get wet. The rocks are slippery. So, be little careful. And avoid hiking after heavy rainfall. Rather a sunny day would be a perfect day for your trip. The total hiking distance is about 6.4 miles. As you finish the trail, a perfect and serene pool is awaiting for you. Altogether, this gorgeous North Georgia waterfall hike with lush trees make it a perfect outdoor experience.
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8. Cherokee Falls
While covering the hike, you’ll find two waterfalls- Cherokee Falls and Hemlock falls. The location is inside Cloudland Canyon State Park. The state park holds the authentic elegance. From the trailhead, you need to cover half mile to reach the first falls that is Cherokee Falls. And then another half mile has to cover for reaching to Hemlock Falls. The trail is fairly difficult. Though the terrain is very scenic and popular as a good photographic spot. Families and friend-groups are always active in this spot.
Best time to visit these waterfalls is during spring and winter. The huge amount of water spilling into broad pools must make you stunned! The trek is a great workout as visitors need to cover a series of landings and stairs.
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9. Hurricane Falls
Hurricane Falls hike is the toughest among all the listed waterfalls in Georgia. But if you are visiting this site to recline the best parts of nature, the hike is worth the effort! This beautiful area is admired by most of the waterfall lovers. It’s located inside Tallulah Gorge State Park. Make sure to take permit from the state park office. During Hurricane Falls hike, another jaw-dropping waterfall, Tallulah Falls is enjoyed by the travelers. Tallulah Falls features totally six stunning waterfalls that run to a deep gorge that plunges from 1,000 feet.
Epic hikes include Hurricane Falls Trail, mostly explored by nature lovers and aspiring photographers, and the other one is the Sliding Rock Trail. This challenging hike gives the hype to experienced hikers with an up-close view of the tumbling waters. This trail leads to a natural swimming area at the gorge.
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10. Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls is the show-stopper among all the waterfalls in Georgia. The trek is accessible from the parking area on Bear Gap Road. The trail is very short and easy. You only need to hike 0.4 miles on Lake Ruban.
The waterfall cascades from 100 feet and creates a nice rock formation. It’s a series of cascades that are located on Falls Creek.
Best time to visit this multi-tiered waterfall is in spring, as the surrounding foliage drape over the terrain and make it a more gorgeous site. This easy and short hike is great for families. If kids are with you, no worries anymore! Your kids also gonna love this spot. Rock climbing is perfect for your older kids. Because of its picturesque setting, photographers are very active with their cameras to snap marvelous views. Altogether, Minnehaha Falls is well worth to stop.
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11.Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls is located in North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Two creeks, Curtis Creek and York Creek Falls cascade from 153-feet and 50-feet height respectively and form this beautiful waterfall. Anna Ruby Falls is favourite among both locals and visitors for providing excellent hiking routes. The hike starts from the parking lot, and it’s an easy-to-moderate half-mile trek.
Unicoi State Park is a nearby attraction. Must explore this park with your near and dear ones. The 0.15-mile Lion’s Eye Interpretive Trail is available for people with physical disabilities. For having laid-back experience, visit the Towns of Helen and Hiawassee. These are some perfect places where you could spend your weekend, far away from your busy and stressful life.
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12. Duke Creek Falls
The beautiful Duke Creek Falls is just north of Helen, Georgia and in the heart Blue Ridge Region. It cascades from 150-feet height. Visitors love to cover the hike as it offers the glimpse of the gorgeous Yonah Mountain and the Raven Cliff Wilderness! This falls is rated as the most picturesque waterfall, and the trail is one of the most beautiful easy-and-sweet hikes in North Georgia.
The hike starts from Dukes Creek trailhead and it is a 2-mile round-trip. At the end, you’ll reach to a shallow pool popular for its crystal-clear water.
If you are in mood of more-to-explore, visit North Georgia Wildlife Park. In the park you could encounter numerous wild animals. Your kids will love this park.
FAQ
1. What is the biggest waterfall in Georgia?
Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia with its 729 feet height and the third-highest cascading waterfall on the east of the Mississippi River. It’s a perfect destination for adventure lovers.
2. Does Georgia have any waterfalls?
People who love to explore numerous waterfalls across the world, Georgia is a perfect place for them. North Georgia is covered with some jaw-dropping waterfalls. You’ll be stunned knowing that Georgia holds more than 700 amazing waterfalls. Though all of these waterfalls are not accessible.
3. Can you swim at High Falls Georgia?
High Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Georgia and you must visit it when you’re exploring the waterfalls in Georgia. Among families, it is a popular day trip destination. Opportunities are truly manifold. The pool is very popular for swimming. Other rewarding fun activities around the waterfall include hiking, exploring many trails, picnicking and enjoying the majestic views of the terrain.
4. What river runs through Amicalola Falls?
Little Amicalola Creek, a tributary of the Etowah River, runs through Amicalola Falls. Amicalola Falls has been named among the seven natural wonders of Georgia.
5. Where is Raven Cliff Falls?
The trailhead of Raven Cliff Falls is located near Helen, Georgia. The hike is 2.5 miles up to the waterfall. Moreover, the trail follows Dodd Creek and it takes approximately three and half hours to complete the round trip. Here you’ll see the majestic views of Raven Cliff Falls. Also, along the hike, you will discover some other small waterfalls.
6. Can you camp at Raven Cliff Falls?
Raven Cliff Falls camping is North Georgia’s one of the most popular camping destinations. You can either go with base camp to hike the Raven Cliff Falls Trail during the day or you might go with trailhead campsites. Visitors can enjoy here stream-side camping.
7. Can you fish at Raven Cliff Falls?
Trout fishing is a great fun activity in Raven Cliff Falls. Throughout the year, the area gets crowded for its huge fishing opportunities. If you visit Raven Cliff Falls in winter, you can see the craze for fishing in winter as well. It’s a year-round favorite destination among anglers.
8. Can you swim at the Raven Cliff Falls?
Though many visitors love to swim here, but swimming is not recommended from any random place at the Raven Cliff Falls. But at the base, you could enjoy cooling down yourself in the small swimming hole. It’s totally safe.
9. Is Raven Cliff Falls trail open?
Raven Cliff Falls trail is open throughout the year. Visitors can go anytime, in any season. The best part is, each season offers unique beauty of the entire land. Also, you could take your leashed dog in this trail. For parking the vehicle in the parking area, visitors need to pay amenities fee per vehicle. And like other popular places, this parking area also gets filled early morning, specially on weekends. So, try to reach there early to have a safe parking space.
10. How hard is Raven Cliff Falls Trail?
The hike to Raven Cliff Falls is quite easy, and sometime visitors need to cross moderately challenging routes. The trail takes approximately one hour and fifty minutes to complete. It is a popular hiking trail. You’ll encounter families enjoying this easy hike. There is no steep trail section you’ll find while completing Raven Cliff Falls trail.
