The Best Waterfalls in Your Own Backyard
The beauty of Georgia's waterfalls can lure even the not-so-outdoorsy types off the beaten path and into picture-perfect wilds.
Jacks River Falls
Photo by @samanthastaylor
Jacks River Falls is one of the most-visited sites in the Cohutta Wilderness, among the largest in the Eastern U.S. with more than 35,000 acres. Advanced hikers, campers, and backpackers seek out its isolated beauty. Hikers who take on the nine-mile Beech Bottom Trail in spring are rewarded with multiple waterfalls and towering hemlocks.
Amicalola Falls
Video by Ilyas Kure, @ilyasskure
Amicalola, which is Cherokee for “tumbling waters,” boasts seven cascades at Amicalola Falls State Park. At 729 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in the state.
Located in the Northeast Georgia Mountains north of Dawsonville, the park and falls are a perfect family destination for the adventure set. Plan to spend the day hiking the trails near the waterfalls, ranging from short journeys to an eight-mile approach trail that will lead you to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the Appalachian Trail.
When you're ready to rest, options range from camping, to a more hotel-style mountain-top lodge, to the Hike Inn, Georgia's only backcountry lodge, reachable by a 5-mile hike.
DeSoto Falls
DeSoto Falls Recreation Area, near Cleveland, is named after the Spanish explorer Hernando Desoto, who traveled through the region in the 16th century. It's located in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Helton Creek Falls
If you're visiting Vogel State Park, stop at Helton Creek Falls in Blairsville to see these family-friendly falls. In the summer, wear your swimsuits and splash around in the pool at the bottom of the falls.
Raven Cliff Falls
To see Raven Cliff Falls near Helen is about a five-mile round-trip hike. Savor the beautiful views of Dodd Creek as you make your way to the 90-foot drop of the main attraction.
Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls, formed by Curtis and York creeks, are local favorites in Helen. Hike the easy-to-moderate half-mile trail from the parking lot to the foot of the falls, and you just might agree.
Minnehaha Falls
The 100-foot, stair-stepping falls of Minnehaha Falls in Tallulah Falls inspire many a photo op, particularly in spring when the surrounding forest puts on a display of blooms.
Tallulah Falls
Tallulah Falls in Tallulah Gorge State Park is a series of six falls cascading through the 1,000-foot-deep Tallulah Gorge. Snap a photo of your view from the suspension bridge swaying 80 feet above the gorge floor.
Panther Falls and Angel Falls
Angel Falls Trail in Rabun County offers two waterfall gems. Hike about a half-mile to view Panther Falls and then continue on, passing by rhododendron, mountain laurel and American holly, to Angel Falls.
Nearby, you'll also find Minnehaha Falls. Plan a complete trip by camping at Lake Rabun Beach Recreation Area or staying at Lake Rabun Hotel & Restaurant.
Toccoa Falls
An easily accessible pathway leads to Toccoa Falls, a 186-foot, free-falling waterfall on the campus of Toccoa Falls College in Toccoa.
Holcomb Creek Falls
Holcomb Creek Falls in Clayton is yet another hike that rewards your effort with double waterfalls. First, find the 120-foot drop of Holcomb Creek Falls and then continue to the viewing deck at the foot of Ammons Falls.
Georgia's most popular hiking trails are also some of its most enchanting.