Guide To Fall Branch Falls in North Georgia
Fall Branch Falls is easily one of North Georgia’s most treasured natural attractions—and it’s not hard to figure out why. This stunning double waterfall is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains but is very easy to access (it’s actually one of the easiest waterfall hikes!) and well worth the scenic half-mile hike.
If we’ve got you sold on Fall Branch Falls, check out this quick and easy guide to find this hidden gem.
Where is Fall Branch Falls?
You’ll be happy to learn that Fall Branch Falls is an easy quarter-mile (half-mile round-trip) hike on the Benton MacKaye Trail. It is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest near beautiful Blue Ridge, Georgia.
The simple, short hike is quite scenic and great for beginners. It winds through lush forest with a mild uphill climb—though we promise the hike is well worth the effort! And, as a reward for your work, the hike back down is all downhill.
To access the falls directly, park along the gravel-paved Stanley Creek Road, which is a free parking area. The trailhead is well-marked and should be easy to spot. The hike to the falls is uphill but easy to navigate otherwise and is well marked with BMT’s signature white diamond logo; you’ll experience a total elevation gain of about 200 feet. As you approach, you’ll be able to hear the falls before you see them, which is a welcomed teaser. The trail will eventually end in a short downhill drop that leads to a wooden observation deck, which provides ample views of the multi-tiered waterfall.
If you’re up for lunch with a view, pack a few snacks for a mid-hike picnic. Or, snap a few pictures with the falls as a beautiful backdrop.
Visitors can also continue along the Benton MacKaye trail to hike to the top of the falls. It’s a short extension that provides exceptional views above the falls and is highly recommended if you have the time to explore.
To return, simply follow that same trail back. Remember, the trek back will be downhill!
How tall is Fall Branch Falls?
Fall Branch Falls is a 75-foot tall double waterfall framed with overgrown rhododendron flowers, slicks natural rock, mountain laurel, and mossy forest surroundings. The cascading waterfall empties into a crystal clear mountain trout stream, which provides a great outlet if you need a quick cool down.
Trails near Fall Branch Falls
As noted, Fall Branch Falls is along the famous Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT), which spans over 300 miles through the southern portion of the Appalachian Trail. The trail starts at Springer Mountain and ends at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The BMT is a popular trek for hikers and bikers of all levels, and is dog-friendly, provided that dogs are kept on a leash at all times.
Beyond the trailhead, the falls empty into Stanley Creek, a small tributary of the larger Toccoa River. Follow the trail past the falls to find the famous Toccoa River swinging bridge, another popular North Georgia attraction.
Here are a few other nearby hiking trails to explore:
- Green Mountain
- Duncan Ridge Trail
- Noontootla Creek
- Flat Creek Loop
- Stanley Gap
- Toccoa River Trail
- Three Forks Loop
- Long Branch Loop
- Lake Blue Ridge Loop
Waterfall Safety Tips
As a reminder, the rocks and immediate surroundings are very slippery. Never attempt to climb a waterfall, and proceed with caution when getting close to the falls.
Keep an eye on children and pets. Children should stay close to parents at all times. Dogs should remain on a leash at all times and stay within a few feet of the owner.
Stay on the developed trails and/or the observation deck at all times.
The top of the falls is the most dangerous. Do not lean over the ledge or attempt to look over the falls.
Never visit a waterfall (or take any hike) alone, and always bring a phone in case of emergency.
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Fall Branch Falls is a great outdoor option for families and groups. The hike is easy, the trail is very well maintained, and the falls are a true bucket list item for any North Georgia visitor.