15 Amazing Waterfalls (with hike) In Georgia (2024)

Does Georgia have Waterfalls? Well, a plentiful of them. Georgia, the astounding southern state, is home to an array of beautiful waterfalls. While some of them cascade down from mountains on meandering streams, others have water tumbling through small creeks and walls. Waterfalls in Georgia are natural wonders and inspiring sites to see. Not only that, but these wonderful attractions also call for a rejuvenating adventure, especially during the hot summer days. With high jumping cliffs alongside and a huge pool underneath, Georgia waterfalls are the ultimate spots to cool down.

Many of the waterfalls in Georgia are very accessible, whereas others require a strenuous hike. Individuals can make it out with either a day visit or a weekend backpacking trip. Most waterfalls in Georgia are set within well-maintained state parks leading through a picturesque pathway. They may require a permit for entry; however, every effort, in the end, proves worth it. So, what’s waiting for you from planning a waterfall adventure trip in Georgia. Take recommendations from the list of 15 best waterfalls to hike in Georgia and build your itinerary.

15 Amazing Waterfalls (with hike) In Georgia

The options below will definitely excite you.

1. Amicalola Falls

The most popular waterfall in Georgia, Amicalola Falls, deserves the first position in every list. Also known as the tallest waterfall in Georgia, Amicalola is miles from the southern end of the Appalachian Trail in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The waterfall cascades through a shady forest for more than 720 feet, tumbling down (meaning of Amicalola as well). Multiple hiking trails inside the national forest led their way to the vantage points of the waterfall. A few adventurous trails even go till the tip of the fall; however, they are strenuous as well as dangerous. The relatively easy and most popular is the 2.1-mile Amicalola Falls Trail. Another is the 0.6 miles out and back ADA-accessible West Ridge Falls Access Trail. The one-mile East Ridge Trail, too, is a great option.

2. Sea Creek Falls

Sea Creek Falls is a remarkable all-season waterfall in Georgia that never disappoints. This 30-foot-tall waterfall, though it is relatively small, its highly captivating appearance never fails to attract enthusiasts. A short hike can take one to Sea Creek Falls in the Coopers Creek Recreation Area near Suches. This half-mile, the in-and-out trail follows the path of Sea Creek, which is majorly flat, making it easy for everyone to hike. However, during monsoon, the trail gets extremely muddy and slippery. The cold water of Sea Creek Falls flows down into a small pool where individuals dip and jump to cool down during summers. Whereas in seasons including late winter or spring, the flow of Sea Creek Falls tends to be much stronger, offering astounding sites.

3. Anna Ruby Falls

Anna Ruby Falls is undoubtedly one of the most amazing waterfalls (with a hike) in Georgia. It is basically a twin fall, a rare pair of enchanting side-by-side waterfalls. This natural phenomenon is a result of the junction of Curtis Creek and York Creek, which creates a scenic and wonderful site. While the former creek tumbles over 150 feet, the latter tumbles at its 1/3rd size, just 50 feet. The water later flows down from the Smith Creek, which ultimately meets the Chattahoochee River. Anna Ruby Falls is accessible via a half-mile trail that begins at a visitor’s center right outside Unicoi State Park. This easy-to-hike paved trail meanders through a bridge over Smith Creek and continues through a forest before finally making you stand in front of the fall. For a distant view, there are two wooden viewing platforms that offer the best photography opportunities.

4. Bad Branch Falls

Bad Branch Falls is a beautiful Georgia waterfall located near Lake Rabun and Lake Seed. The waterfall has something unique to offer, specifically in how it appears and functions. The slanted rock formation and how water flows down them create a mesmerizing picture. Reaching Bad Branch Fall doesn’t need hiking, but some tiring driving is required. One has to drive 6 miles down Lake Rabun Road, following a curvy, winding, unpaved trip for another 3 miles. Stop where the Lower and Upper Crow Creek Falls are, and you will find a pre-picture of what’s stored inside. Thereafter, a small creek with a trail leading slightly uphill from the road will ultimately lead you to the waterfall. Bad Branch Falls is 30 feet high, and it stays the best during early spring and throughout the monsoon season.

5. Caledonia Cascade

Caledonia Cascade, or as they call it, the Cascade fall, is the second tallest waterfall in Georgia. This amazing waterfall has a 600-foot drop with multiple tiers set up in a small stream. The highest is the 262 feet drop that falls into Tallulah Gorge near its start. Caledonia Cascade usually maintains low flow; however, after heavy rainfall, the flow turns out to be extremely rich and different. For getting the best views of the fall, one can hike up the South Rim Trail or other pathways across Tallulah George. Though the former is a better option for all-age hikers since it is easy and has fewer elevations. Hikers can stop at many vantage points, including, Overlooks 8, 9, and 10, Wallenda tower, and the rim of Tallulah Gorge. The Gorge Floor Trail also offers mesmerizing views of the lower section of Caledonia Cascade.

6. Ada-Hi Falls

The highest elevation waterfall in Georgia, Ada-Hi Falls, is a must-visit. It is within Black Rock Mountain State Park in Rabun County, with a forest of rhododendron around. Besides how lush or beautiful the waterfall is, individuals come attracted here due to the dense thickets of rhododendron and patches of wildflowers. Ada-Hi Falls is at its best during heavy winter rainfall, monsoon, or during the snow melt season. To reach here, one has to cover a delightful walk through a moist, north-slope Appalachian cove. On the way comes mature hardwoods, thickets of ferns and wildflowers, lichen-covered stones, and other panoramas of nature. The waterfall is 35 feet high, and a vantage point nearby allows visitors to observe its beauty.

7. Cherokee Falls

Northern Georgia is home to some of the most scenic waterfalls in America, and the Cherokee Fall is a fine example of the same. This 60-foot waterfall is a part of Cloudland Canyon State Park and is set within Daniel Creek Gorge. Cherokee has different pictures throughout the year, though it is its best during/ after heavy rainfall, spring, and winter months. To reach here, one has to take the famous Waterfalls Trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park. The trail, though it is nearly half, meanders, but since it meanders through the steep walls of Daniel Creek Gorge, hiking here is slightly strenuous. The trail goes another half mile to Hemlock Falls, another picturesque fall. Cherokee Falls is quite popular amongst photographers since it makes great backdrops.

8. Dick’s Creek Falls

Another amazing waterfall (with hike) in Georgia, the Dick’s Creek Falls, is a must-visit. Along with multiple other Georgian waterfalls, it too is a part of Chattahoochee National Forest. The waterfall drops 60 feet into Dicks Creek in the Chattooga River, forming a huge swimming hole for visitors. The summer season here means crowds from all across Georgia since everyone wants to cool down and have fun here. To reach the fall, one can take the 1.4 miles Dick’s Creek Trail. The trailhead is at the small parking area that can be accessed by following Sandy Ford Road onto a dirt road. The hike is short, easy, and accessible for hikers of all fitness levels. The trail will meander through lush greenery and tall hardwood trees, offering stunning views of the Chattooga Basin.

9. Dukes Creek Falls

Georgia’s gem, the Dukes Creek Falls, is in the heart of North Georgia’s Blue Ridge region, just north of Helen. The flow here isn’t the lushest, but the scenic views around add much to one’s interest. To reach the waterfall begins at the Dukes Creek trailhead and hike for the next two miles. The best part about this pathway is its ADA accessibility and safety for kids and dogs. Dukes Creek trail is well maintained, with multiple views from the route. Before it descends a set of wooden stairs and turns into a wide dirt path, hikers can stop and take their first look at the falls. Further after a mile, the trail comes close to large viewing platforms offering mesmerizing waterfall views. The crystal clear water of Dukes Creek Falls is apt for swimming or taking a dip on a hot summer day.

10. Blue Hole Falls

One of the best waterfalls in Georgia, the Blue Hole Falls, is enchanting. It is located in the High Shoals Scenic Area and can be accessed via the High Shoals Trail. The trailhead begins at Indian Grave Gap Road (Forest Service Road 283) north of Helen. It goes about a mile or more downhill via the High Shoals Trail, passing areas of sheer natural beauty. Right close to the waterfall is a small observation deck that overlooks directly into the fall. After the latter half of the trail, there are easily identifiable primitive campsites offering camping for small and large groups. The Blue Hole Falls is a common water adventure ground for swimming enthusiasts. However, since it reaches a depth of more than 10 feet, it isn’t the best one for non-swimmers. Once done enjoying the Blue Hole Falls, one can also take the further strenuous hike to the High Shoals Falls.

11. Helton Creek Falls

Helton Creek Falls is a pair of beautiful falls in Vogel State Park. It is a mile from Helen and can be reached by an easy hike. Hikers can take the easy 0.3 miles of Helton Creek Falls Trail to observe the ultimate beauty of Helton Creek’s downpour. Walking through the trail is relatively comfortable and ideal for even the novices. However, caution is necessary since rocks around the falls can prove deceptively slippery. The best time to be here is during the monsoon or fall season since it is when the water flow is extremely generous. Helton Creek Falls is ideal for fall seekers, swimming enthusiasts, and individuals who are looking for family-friendly fun. Visitors of Blue Falls typically come to camp overnight.

12. DeSoto Falls

A scenic waterfall in Georgia, the DeSoto Falls got its name after the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto. It isn’t just a water and hiking affair but also boasts some exciting history. This 200 feet waterfall has lower, middle, and upper cascades, and it sits at an elevation of 3,560 feet in the Rocky Mountains. The upper, middle and lower cascades drop 200 feet, 90 feet, and 35 feet, respectively. To reach the fall, one can take the 2.2-mile DeSoto Falls Trail that leads its way to lower and upper cascades. Some of the other common trails leading their way here include Trahlyta Lake Trail and Bear Hair Gap Trail. The area near DeSoto Falls is also popular for its camping facilities.

13. Minnehaha Falls

A 100-foot stair-stepping waterfall, the Minnehaha Falls is located in the Tallulah Gorge area. These multi-tiered falls reach the multi-tiered falls cascade over cliffs, but before that, it cascades over cliffs. To reach here, enthusiasts can take the short 0.4-mile Minnehaha Trail from Bear Gap Road. The hike is relatively easy and less strenuous, making it an ideal choice for families, senior adults, and individuals with pets. The best time to be here is during the snow melt season or after heavy rainfall days. It is when both the waterfall and the greenery around appear the best. A day at Minnehaha Falls boasts breathtaking natural scenery and excellent photographic opportunities. Several photography enthusiasts from the state prefer Minnehaha Falls over other falls.

14. Toccoa Falls

Toccoa Falls is noted as one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi. It drops 186-foot with small but unnoticeable cascades in between. In the local Cherokee language, Toccoa means beautiful, and the waterfall is an excellent example of the same. Since the waterfall is inside the campus of Toccoa Falls College, reaching here doesn’t ask for following any strenuous hike. Instead, it is just a short walk along the stream to the base of the falls on the campus. Adjoining the fall is a visitor center with all information, mysteries, tragedies, and history of the waterfall. Entry to the waterfall opens through the week from 10:00 am/12:00 pm to 4:00 pm and is open for all.

15. High Shoals Falls

Last but not least on our list is the High Shoals Falls. This undoubtedly amazing waterfall in Georgia is set in a lush, green forest near Helen in Hiawassee. The waterfall is within pathways of Blue Hole Falls, which makes accessing both of them together easy. The trail for the same menders (2.5-mile round-trip) through a verdant, mossy creek valley. Before reaching the Blue Hole Falls, the trail comes close to primitive campsites. High Shoals Falls is slightly further along the trail; however, it is worth the effort. After a tiring hiking session, individuals can take a dip and check their swimming skills in the pool underneath.