Top 12 Waterfalls In and Near Blue Ridge, GA

Within an hour of Blue Ridge, you can stand beneath Georgia’s tallest cascade (729 feet), swim in mountain pools, or take toddlers on paved trails to twin waterfalls. The challenge isn’t finding waterfalls in North Georgia – it’s choosing which ones to visit first.

This guide covers 12 of the best waterfalls within 90 minutes of Blue Ridge, GA, from quick roadside stops to challenging all-day hikes. 

You’ll find swimming holes, wheelchair-accessible trails, dog-friendly paths, and everything you need to know: parking situations, creek crossings, when to visit for peak flow, and which ones fill up on weekends.

Quick waterfall decision guide:

• Best for families with young kids: Sea Creek Falls, Anna Ruby Falls
• Best swimming holes: Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, Emery Creek Falls
• Most dramatic/tallest: Amicalola Falls (729 ft), Tallulah Gorge (5 waterfalls)
• Shortest hike: Amicalola West Ridge (0.1 mi), Fall Branch Falls (0.3 mi)
• Least crowded: Sea Creek Falls, Panther Creek Falls, Emery Creek Falls

Complete Waterfall Comparison Table

Notes:

• RT = Roundtrip
• Fees as of 2026 (subject to change)
• Kid ages are recommendations, not restrictions
• Swimming depends on season and water levels
• *Anna Ruby: Service animals only
• **Tallulah: Rim trails easy, gorge floor difficult (permit required)
• ***Tallulah: Swimming in designated gorge floor area only (permit required, limited to 100/day)

1. Amicalola Falls: Georgia’s Tallest Waterfall

Height: 729 feet
Location: Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville, GA
GPS Coordinates: 34.5632, -84.2469 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 45 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 0.1 miles (10 min) to 2.1 miles (1.5 hours), depending on trail choice
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes (stairs involved, ages 4+)
Fee: $5 per vehicle
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. The Cherokee name means “tumbling waters,” and you have three ways to experience it: a short wheelchair-accessible path to a viewing platform, the famous 425-step staircase alongside the cascades, or the full 2.1-mile loop trail.

The West Ridge Falls Access Trail (0.1 miles) gets you to distant views with minimal effort. The Stairway to the Falls (0.3 miles) climbs 425 steps with multiple photo platforms. The East Ridge Trail Loop (2.1 miles) takes you to the top via forest trail, across the bridge at the crest, then down the staircase.

[Image suggestion: View from staircase platform showing multiple cascades]

Before You Go:

• Arrive before 10am or after 4pm on weekends to avoid crowds
• Peak flow: March through May after rainfall
• Full facilities: visitor center, restrooms, lodge restaurant
• No swimming permitted
• Good cell service throughout

Bonus Activities: Cascades Restaurant has waterfall views, Birds of Prey show (seasonal), zipline adventures, Appalachian Trail Approach Trail starts here.

Pro Tip: The middle staircase platforms offer the best angles for photos. Early morning light creates beautiful mist effects.

2. Long Creek Falls: Most Popular in Fannin County

Height: 50 feet (two-tiered cascade)
Location: Three Forks, Chattahoochee National Forest
GPS Coordinates: 34.7833, -84.1167 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 35 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 2 miles roundtrip, 30-45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes, ages 4+
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

This two-tiered cascade tumbles into a refreshing pool perfect for summer swimming. The trail follows a scenic section of the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail through hemlocks and rhododendrons.

The mostly flat, shaded trail follows Noontootla Creek for about a mile before blue blazes mark a short side trail to the falls. The pool is deep enough for swimming, though water stays 55-65°F even in summer.

[Image suggestion: Families swimming in the pool at base of falls]

Before You Go:

• Requires 5.3 miles on Forest Service Road 58 (gravel but manageable)
• Small parking lot fills by 10am on weekends
• Limited to no cell service
• Best for swimming: June through August
• Avoid after heavy rain (road gets rough)

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic. The Three Forks confluence area has flat rocks perfect for riverside relaxing.

3. Fall Branch Falls: Quick Mountain Escape

Height: 30 feet (with cascades above)
Location: Benton MacKaye Trail, off Stanley Creek Road
GPS Coordinates: 34.8333, -84.2833 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 25 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 0.3 miles roundtrip, 30 minutes total
Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep in sections)
Kid Friendly: Ages 6+ recommended
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

Perfect when you want a waterfall without a long hike. This cascade features upper cascades leading to a single major drop into a deep pool. Despite being close to Blue Ridge, it feels remote and peaceful.

The Benton MacKaye Trail climbs slightly uphill through mountain laurel and rhododendron. Follow white diamond blazes. The trail is short but can be steep and rocky in sections.

[Image suggestion: Waterfall with deep swimming pool, summer scene]

Before You Go:

• Very limited parking (4-6 vehicles), arrive early on weekends
• Stanley Creek Road is gravel but passable
• Can be muddy after rain
• Limited cell service

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday to have it to yourself. Weekends fill up fast due to limited parking.

• Sea Creek Falls: Hidden Family Gem

4. Sea Creek Falls: Hidden Family Gem

Height: 30 feet (double cascade)

Location: Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area, Suches, GA

GPS Coordinates: 34.7667, -84.0167 • Google Maps

Drive Time from Blue Ridge: 50 minutes

Hike Distance & Time: 0.5 miles roundtrip, 20-30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Kid Friendly: Yes, great for toddlers and young children

Fee: Free

Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

One of North Georgia’s best-kept secrets. This double-cascading waterfall drops into a shallow pool perfect for young children to wade and splash. The trail is less than half a mile and mostly flat.

The wide, easy path follows Sea Creek through Coopers Creek Wildlife Management Area. The shallow pool (knee to waist deep) is ideal for kids on hot days.

Before You Go:

• Access via Forest Service Road 4 (dirt but well-maintained)
• Waterproof hiking boots recommended (can be muddy)
• Fewer visitors than more popular falls
• Spotty to no cell service
• Can run low during fall drought

Pro Tip: Excellent “first waterfall hike” for toddlers. Short distance and shallow wading pool make it low-stress for parents.

5. Helton Creek Falls: The Twin Waterfalls

Height: Two separate falls (upper is taller, approximately 50 feet total)

Location: Near Blairsville, GA (off Helton Creek Road)

GPS Coordinates: 34.7833, -83.9500 • Google Maps

Drive Time from Blue Ridge: 40 minutes

Hike Distance & Time: 0.6 miles roundtrip, 30-40 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate (elevation changes, slippery rocks)

Kid Friendly: Yes, but requires close supervision due to slick rocks

Fee: Free

Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

A unique two-for-one experience. This trail descends to the Lower Falls first, then climbs to the more impressive Upper Falls. Both are surrounded by mountain laurel and rock formations.

The trail is well-worn but challenging with exposed roots, rocks, and steep sections. The rocks around both viewing areas are notoriously slippery, even when dry.

[Image suggestion: Both upper and lower falls in one frame]

Before You Go:

• SLIPPERY ROCKS are the most common hazard
• Small gravel lot (6-8 vehicles) fills quickly on weekends
• Helton Creek Road becomes gravel but passable
• Not recommended immediately after rain
• Limited cell service

Pro Tip: Spend more time at the Upper Falls, which is more dramatic. Don’t rush on the rocks.

6. Trahlyta Falls: Vogel State Park Classic

Height: 110 feet

Location: Vogel State Park, Blairsville, GA

GPS Coordinates: 34.7669, -83.9272 • Google Maps

Drive Time from Blue Ridge: 45 minutes

Hike Distance & Time: 0.5 miles, 20-30 minutes (includes stairs)

Difficulty: Moderate (due to stairs)

Kid Friendly: Yes

Fee: $5 Georgia State Park pass

Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

Located in one of North Georgia’s oldest state parks, this waterfall is named after a Cherokee princess in local legend. The short hike offers much better views than the roadside pull-off.

The trail starts near the visitor center with stunning views of Trahlyta Lake and Blood Mountain before descending wooden stairs to the falls viewing platform.

Before You Go:

• $5 state park pass required (or annual Georgia Parks Pass)
• Full amenities: restrooms, visitor center, camping, lake beach
• Popular on weekends, arrive early
• No swimming at falls (but lake has swimming beach)
• Good cell service

Pro Tip: Make this a full-day trip. Hike to the falls in the morning, then enjoy the lake beach. Vogel has 17 miles of hiking trails, boat rentals, and camping.

7. DeSoto Falls: Double-Falls Adventure

Height: Lower Falls 35 feet, Upper Falls 90 feet
Location: DeSoto Falls Scenic Area, Lumpkin County
GPS Coordinates: 34.6972, -83.9097 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 65 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 1.9 miles roundtrip for both falls, 45-60 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

Two distinct waterfalls on one moderate trail. The Lower Falls is easily accessible at just 0.3 miles, while the Upper Falls requires continuing upstream for the more impressive 90-foot cascade.

Most people stop at the Lower Falls, so continuing to the Upper Falls means fewer crowds and more dramatic views.

Before You Go:

• Very popular on weekends, parking fills by mid-morning
• Picnic area with tables and restrooms at trailhead
• Trail is well-maintained and clearly marked
• Weekday visits more peaceful
• Moderate cell service

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the Upper Falls. The extra effort is worth it for the taller cascade and solitude.

8. Anna Ruby Falls: Wheelchair-Accessible Wonder

Height: Curtis Creek Falls 153 feet, York Creek Falls 50 feet
Location: Chattahoochee National Forest, near Helen, GA
GPS Coordinates: 34.7347, -83.7069 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 70 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 0.8 miles roundtrip, 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (paved trail)
Kid Friendly: Yes; stroller and wheelchair accessible
Fee: $3 per person, ages 16+
Dogs Allowed: No (service animals only on paved trail)

The most accessible waterfall in North Georgia. Twin waterfalls where two creeks join at the base. The fully paved 0.4-mile trail is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

[Image suggestion: Twin waterfalls with observation deck and visitors]

The path is mostly level with gentle elevation gain, wide enough for two wheelchairs to pass. Two observation decks near the base provide excellent viewing angles.

Before You Go:

• Entry fee: $3 per person (ages 16+)
• Parking fills on peak weekends (arrive before 11am or after 3pm)
• Paved trail maintained year-round
• Winter can bring ice, check conditions
• Good cell service

Pro Tip: Best waterfall for introducing very young children or elderly grandparents to North Georgia falls. Unicoi State Park is adjacent with lake, beach, and more trails.

9. Dukes Creek Falls: Canyon Spectacle

Height: 150 feet (sheer drop into canyon)
Location: Richard Russell Scenic Highway, near Helen, GA
GPS Coordinates: 34.7322, -83.7806 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 75 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 2.5 miles roundtrip, 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (stairs and elevation)
Kid Friendly: Ages 10+ recommended
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

One of the most dramatic waterfalls in North Georgia, dropping 150 feet down a sheer granite canyon wall. The observation deck is suspended over the canyon for an unforgettable viewing experience.

[Image suggestion: Suspended observation deck overlooking canyon and falls]

The 1.25-mile trail descends approximately 340 stairs to reach the canyon rim platforms. The return hike is all uphill, so pace yourself.

Before You Go:

• Challenging due to stairs and elevation
• Observation deck may feel high (but is very safe)
• Return hike is all uphill, take breaks
• Limited cell service
• Can be slippery after rain

Pro Tip: The suspended observation deck offers the most dramatic views, but there’s also a lower platform if heights make you uncomfortable.

10. Emery Creek Falls: The Creek-Crossing Challenge

Height: 60 feet (main falls), plus 4 smaller waterfalls upstream
Location: Cohutta Wilderness, near Chatsworth/Eton, GA
GPS Coordinates: 34.8313, -84.6324 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 60 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 5.7-6 miles roundtrip, 2.5-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (20+ creek crossings)
Kid Friendly: Ages 8+ (must be comfortable getting wet and crossing creeks)
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

An adventure unlike any other North Georgia waterfall hike. With 20+ creek crossings, you’re guaranteed to get wet. The main falls drops into a deep pool, and four additional smaller waterfalls wait upstream.

[Image suggestion: Hikers crossing creek, showing the adventure aspect]

The trail follows Emery Creek through Cohutta Wilderness with repeated creek crossings, some knee-deep. Look for light green blazes and colored ribbons at crossings. Plan to get wet.

Before You Go:

• Waterproof boots or water shoes essential
• Creek crossings challenging after heavy rain, check weather
• Remote area, tell someone your plans
• 5 miles dirt road access (Old CCC Camp Road)
• No cell service
• Best time: Late spring/summer for warmest water

Pro Tip: Bring a dry bag for your phone/camera and extra socks. Visit in July or August when water is warmest.

11. Panther Creek Falls: For Experienced Hikers

Height: Multi-tiered cascade (approximately 100+ feet total)
Location: Clarkesville, GA (Tallulah Ranger District)
GPS Coordinates: 34.7528, -83.4056 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 60 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: 7+ miles roundtrip (various routes), 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Kid Friendly: Not recommended for young children
Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

One of North Georgia’s most beautiful and challenging waterfall hikes. The falls cascade dramatically through a scenic forest gorge with multiple tiers and pools.

Multiple trail routes exist. The most popular follows Panther Creek Trail and East Cowpen Trail as a loop. The trail can be overgrown in sections. Download offline maps before going.

Before You Go:

• Trail can run dry in summer drought, spring best
• Path may be overgrown, long pants recommended
• Download offline trail map (cell service unreliable)
• Strong navigation skills helpful
• Least crowded of major North Georgia waterfalls

Pro Tip: Best as a spring adventure when falls are at peak flow and trail is less overgrown. Don’t attempt in late summer when water may be minimal.

12. Tallulah Gorge: Five Waterfalls in One Spectacular Canyon

Height: Five waterfalls ranging 17-96 feet in a 1,000-foot deep gorge
Location: Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls, GA
GPS Coordinates: 34.7378, -83.3933 • Google MapsDrive Time from Blue Ridge: 90 minutes
Hike Distance & Time: Varies (rim trails easy, gorge floor difficult)
Difficulty: Easy (rim trails) to Difficult (gorge floor)
Kid Friendly: Yes for rim trails; gorge floor ages 12+ only
Fee: $5 Georgia State Park pass
Dogs Allowed: Yes on rim trails (leash required); no gorge floor access for dogs

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the eastern United States. The Tallulah River carved a gorge nearly 1,000 feet deep, creating five distinct waterfalls.

[Image suggestion: Suspension bridge crossing gorge with canyon views]

The rim trails are paved or well-maintained with multiple overlook platforms. The suspension bridge crosses 80 feet above the rocky bottom. For gorge floor access, obtain a free permit at the visitor center (first-come, first-served, limited to 100 per day).

Five Waterfalls (north to south): L’Eau d’Or Falls (17 ft) • Tempesta Falls (76 ft) • Hurricane Falls (96 ft, tallest) • Oceana Falls (50 ft) • Bridal Veil Falls (17 ft)

Before You Go:

• $5 state park pass required
• Gorge floor permit required (free, limited to 100/day)
• Check water release schedule, gorge closes during releases
• Rim trails: Easy, family-friendly
• Gorge floor: Strenuous, not for young children
• Good cell service at visitor center

Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a gorge floor permit. Rim trails alone are spectacular and require no permit.

Waterfall Road Trip Planning

Best Times to Visit Waterfalls Near Blue Ridge

Spring (March-May): Highest water flow, wildflowers, mild temperatures. Best overall time for viewing but some trails are muddy.

Summer (June-August): Lower flow but perfect swimming weather. Long Creek Falls, Sea Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, and Emery Creek Falls have swimming holes. Most crowded.

Fall (September-November): Moderate to low flow, spectacular autumn colors, comfortable hiking. Second-best for photography.

Winter (December-February): Lowest flow, but some falls partially freeze creating dramatic ice. Least crowded. Some remote roads may be closed.

What to Pack: Waterfall Hiking Essentials

Footwear (most important!)

• Hiking boots with good tread and ankle support
• Waterproof boots if visiting Emery Creek Falls
• Water shoes for swimming falls
• Avoid: Tennis shoes, regular sandals

Hydration & Snacks

• 1 liter (32 oz) of water minimum per person (more in summer)
• High-energy snacks (trail mix, granola bars, fruit)
• Electrolyte drinks for longer hikes

Safety Items

• First aid kit
• Fully charged phone
• Offline trail maps downloaded
• Whistle
• Headlamp (in case hike runs longer than expected)

Seasonal Items

• Spring/Summer: Bug spray, sunscreen, hat
• Fall: Light jacket, extra layer
• Winter: Warm layers, gloves, beanie

For Swimming Waterfalls

• Swimsuit and towel
• Water shoes
• Dry bag for electronics
• Change of clothes

Wheelchair & Stroller Accessible Options

Fully Wheelchair Accessible:

• Anna Ruby Falls – 0.8-mile paved trail, designed for wheelchairs
• Amicalola Falls West Ridge Trail – 0.1-mile paved, wheelchair accessible viewpoint

Stroller-Friendly (wide, relatively smooth trails):

• Trahlyta Falls – Wide trail to overlook (stairs present at end)
• Tallulah Gorge rim trails – Paved paths to multiple overlooks
• DeSoto Falls Lower Falls – Short, relatively flat approach (0.3 mi)

Not Recommended for Wheelchairs/Strollers: 

• Long Creek Falls
• Fall Branch Falls
• Sea Creek Falls
• Helton Creek Falls
• Emery Creek Falls
• Dukes Creek Falls
• Panther Creek Falls

Frequently Asked Questions

Which waterfall is closest to Blue Ridge GA? Fall Branch Falls at 25 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, GA. Long Creek Falls is 35 minutes and slightly easier for families.

Can you swim at waterfalls near Blue Ridge? Yes! Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, Sea Creek Falls, and Emery Creek Falls have swimming holes. Swimming is not permitted at state park waterfalls (Amicalola, Trahlyta) except Tallulah Gorge’s designated area with permit.

What is the tallest waterfall near Blue Ridge GA? Amicalola Falls at 729 feet is the tallest waterfall in Georgia, located 45 minutes from Blue Ridge.

When is the best time to visit waterfalls near Blue Ridge? Spring (March-May) offers highest water flow and wildflowers. Summer (June-August) has lower flow but perfect for swimming. Fall (October-November) has beautiful foliage but lower water. Winter is the least crowded.

Do I need a 4-wheel drive vehicle? For most waterfalls, no. Long Creek Falls requires 5+ miles on dirt Forest Service Road 58 (high clearance helpful but not required in dry conditions). Emery Creek Falls has dirt road access but passable when dry.

How difficult are the waterfall hikes? Most range from easy to moderate. Shortest: Amicalola West Ridge (0.1 mi). Longest: Emery Creek Falls (6 mi) and Panther Creek Falls (7+ mi). Average hike: 1-2 miles roundtrip.

Can I bring my dog to waterfalls? Most allow dogs on leash. Exceptions: Anna Ruby Falls does not allow dogs (service animals only), Tallulah Gorge allows dogs on rim trails but not gorge floor.

What’s the best waterfall for young children? Anna Ruby Falls (paved, wheelchair accessible, short 0.8-mile walk) or Sea Creek Falls (short 0.5-mile easy trail, shallow swimming pool).

Do waterfalls freeze in winter? Rarely, but Amicalola Falls has partially frozen in January-February during extreme cold, creating stunning ice formations. Most continue flowing year-round at reduced levels.

Which waterfalls are least crowded? Sea Creek Falls, Emery Creek Falls, and Panther Creek Falls see fewer visitors due to longer drives or difficulty. Weekday visits to any waterfall will be less crowded than weekends.

Plan Your Waterfall Adventure

North Georgia’s waterfalls offer everything from wheelchair-accessible paved trails to challenging wilderness hikes. Whether you’re after the dramatic 729-foot Amicalola Falls or the swimming holes at Long Creek Falls, you’ll find your perfect adventure within 90 minutes of Blue Ridge.

After a day exploring waterfalls, relax in a comfortable Blue Ridge cabin with mountain views and a hot tub. Browse our Blue Ridge cabin rentals and start planning your waterfall weekend.