6 Breathtaking Waterfalls in North Georgia
Northern Georgia is blessed with some of the most beautiful terrain in the country. Rolling hills covered in lush forests, biodiverse species and flowers, streams meandering all throughout the valleys, and stunning waterfalls around every corner. There are so many all over the state, so we decided to pick out our 6 favorites that you could visit over and over again for their timeless beauty.
Deep in the Cherokee National Forest lies a lovely hiking trail that meanders along 4 waterfalls and ultimately leads you to a serene swimming hole. Hiking up on a hot day to a cool forest pool is an amazing treat. There are tall rock walls surrounding the waterfall fed pool that people have been known to cliff jump from.
While you are visiting Blue Hole Falls, you may as well continue up the trail to High Shoals Falls, one of the largest and most popular waterfalls in the area. The trail up to the falls consists of stone stairs and water crossings as you ascend up the forest. You’ll know you are close when the roaring of the falls starts to amplify and the tree canopy opens up to make way for the large falls.
These waterfalls are near Unicoi State Park just north of Helen and are accessible to all. The Anna Ruby Falls are actually two twin waterfalls where two streams join. You can access these picturesque falls by a half mile paved path through lush green forests.
Dukes Creek started the gold rush in 1828 when gold was found in this very river. There are rumors that you can still find gold flakes in the stream! Follow the stream up into the woods to find a stunning 150 foot waterfall that is just magnificent. The trail is about two miles round trip and is easily accessible, making it perfect for families.
These falls are a short walk from the parking area and showcase a set of two waterfalls cascading down dark slate rocks. This is a great quick stop to see a bit of Georgia’s stunning nature. You can also hike around the falls on a lovely two-mile loop to see the stream and local flora and fauna up close.
The falls at the gorge were so breathtakingly beautiful they decided to name an entire town after them. Tallulah Falls in the town of (get this) Tallulah Falls are some of the most awe-inspiring sights you could imagine. The Tallulah Gorge State Park is set in a canyon with towering evergreens and deciduous trees galore. Talk above the gorge on their suspension bridge and peer down to the rushing river. To access the falls, you need a permit, which is free and must be attained at the visitors center to climb down and really soak in the beauty. The river cascades down a series of rocks creating numerous waterfalls along the same river.
While you can enjoy these wonderful waterfalls at anytime of the year, fall is definitely one of the most magical times. The red, yellow, and orange leaves are everywhere from the trees to the ground, and even floating along in the streams. Take a day and explore all of these great waterfalls in one epic day, or pick your favorite and bring a picnic to really soak up the beauty.
Planning a trip to North Georgia? Book a stay at The Sylvan Valley Lodge & Cellars, located in the charming alpine town of Helen near the best mountains, rivers, and waterfalls in the state.