10 Georgia Waterfalls Worthy of a Walk in the Woods

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 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.

DeSoto Falls photo credit: Atlanta Trails.

If you’re visiting Vogel State Park, stop at Helton Creek Falls to see these family-friendly falls. In the summer, wear your swimsuits and splash around in the pool at the bottom of the 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.

Raven Cliff Falls photo credit: Atlanta Trails.

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.

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 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.

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.

Panther Falls photo credit: Atlanta Trails.

An easily accessible pathway leads to Toccoa Falls, a 186-foot, free-falling waterfall on the campus of Toccoa Falls College.

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.