North Georgia Waterfalls: A Complete List
There are more than 100 waterfalls hidden within the North Georgia mountains. With so many choices available, you are guaranteed to find adventure when you go chasing waterfalls. Even if you are not the outdoorsy type, you will find there is much to discover in this region and remarkable sights to behold along the way. Be sure to make some time to explore the backcountry trails and recreation areas that lead to one or more of these North Georgia waterfalls and bask in the natural beauty of the Mother Nature's splendor!
Amicalola Falls
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Photo credit: Gina Carmichael
Dawson County, Georgia
In Cherokee, Amicalola means “tumbling waters, ” and it is the perfect description for this waterfall. Amicalola is conveniently located on the north side of Dawsonville at the Northeast Georgia Mountains. This waterfall features seven cascades at Amicalola Falls State Park and has a height of 729 feet, making it the tallest waterfall found in the state. These falls are in the Dawsonville-Dahlonega area of Georgia.
With the combination of the falls and the park, it has become a favorite destination for families as well as those who are looking for an adventurous hike. Some hiking trails near the falls are just comprised of short walks, but there are also options for those who want a more challenging route. In fact, there is an eight-mile trail that leads the hikers to the Springer Mountain.
Fall Branch Falls
Photo Credit: fallbranchfalls via Instagram
Fannin County, Georgia
A venture to Fall Branch Falls is well worth the short trek! The hike to the falls is only a half-mile round trip along the Benton MacKaye Trail. Do note that the walk is mostly uphill through a lush forest area, but is fairly easy to navigate otherwise.
Fall Branch Falls are often considered one of Georgia’s most beautiful waterfalls—and it’s not hard to figure out why! The rugged, cascading waterfall features more dimension than a traditional vertical waterfall. Rather than a straight drop, the water flows at an angle down the rocky hillside, framed by gnarly branches and mossy rocks. It’s truly a sight to be seen!
Check out Guide To Fall Branch Falls in North Georgia for more information on one of North Georgia’s most treasured natural attractions.
Noontootla Falls
Fannin County, Georgia
If you’re short on time but still want to squeeze in a quick waterfall sighting, Noontoola Falls is just what the geologist ordered. Situated very close to the road on a small tributary of Noontootla Creek, this hidden waterfall is a surprise to many! The falls are easy to miss—so go slow and take caution along the winding road or you might just drive past.
Located within the scenic Chattahoochee National Forest, this tall, steep waterfall provides an impressive perspective. The waterfall is viewable from the roadside, but to get a good view, you’ll need to ascend a somewhat steep and slippery slope.
Desoto Falls
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Photo Credit: Jeff Gunn via Flickr CC2.0
Lumpkin County, Georgia
This waterfall is located in the National Forest of Chattahoochee and is near Cleveland. It is actually named after Hernando Desoto, a Spanish explorer who trekked around the region back in the 16 century. Desoto Falls have upper and lower sections you would not want to miss.
There is a two-mile hike that will allow you to experience why those two sections are worth your time. The 1.5-mile trail to follow that runs along the Frogtown Creek leading to the Upper Falls. You can even take a break and enjoy a dip in the creek so that you can cool off. The trail consists of a forest path lined with trees and ferns.
Meanwhile, the 0.5-mile trail that will lead you to the Lower Falls is a bit challenging as it packs in elevation. You will climb a short sequence of switchbacks. Although a little difficult, the result is a breathtaking view of the 45-foot falls.
Sea Creek Falls
Fannin County, Georgia
Situated within the scenic Cooper Creek Area, Sea Creek Falls is a great mountain destination for visitors seeking an easy and fun adventure. The falls are about a tenth of a mile from the parking lot area, providing a short and picturesque jaunt through the woods. Do note that the drive to the parking area can be a bit tricky, so an offroad vehicle is recommended.
The falls are small but mighty, standing at just over 30 feet tall. The water elegantly cascades over a series of boulders before emptying into a large water pool at the bottom. The water flow varies seasonally, with a heavier flow in the spring as snow melts or in the summer after a heavy rain shower.
Nottely Falls
Photo Credit: Alan Cressler via Flickr CC2.0
Union County, Georgia
Nottely Falls is perhaps one of the most unique waterfalls in the south. Tall and shallow, this stately waterfall definitely makes a strong impression. Unlike many other mountain waterfalls that cascade purposefully over thick, jutted rocks, Nottely Falls has a shallow flow that comes down a near-perfect 90-degree angle.
Getting to this waterfall is a bit tricky. Park in the Byron Herbert Reece Trail parking area and walk along US Highway 19/129 for a short distance. From there, turn right and carefully descend a steep slope to Shanty Branch and follow the small creek upstream to the falls. Given the nature of the trail, a trip to Nottely Falls is best suited for the most experienced hikers.
Helton Creek Falls
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Photo Credit: Jim Liestman via Flickr CC2.0
Union County, Georgia
The short, kid and pet-friendly trek to Helton Creek Falls makes a perfect morning or afternoon excursion. Situated near Helen, Georgia, visitors will enjoy a short, 0.3-mile stroll through the forest before the stunning falls come into view. The short jaunt also makes Helton Creek a great spot for a scenic picnic!
Helton Creek Falls is actually a set of two cascading waterfalls that spill effortlessly over the rocky mountainside. The falls are framed by vibrant moss and thick hemlock trees, hence the name. Weathered boulders and fallen trees rest at the base of the falls, where water gathers briefly before continuing downstream. The scenery is quite peaceful and serene, making a great memory for your stay in the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Long Creek Falls
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Photo Credit: Matt Malone via Flickr CC2.0
Fannin County, Georgia
Ellijay adventurers looking for a short but challenging waterfall hunt will appreciate the trek to Long Creek Falls in the Three Forks Valley. Short but mighty, the one-mile hike to the falls is known for a moderate incline and somewhat tricky navigation; it’s not nearly the most challenging trail in the mountains but is better suited for visitors with some hiking experience.
The trip is well worth the effort, however, and Long Creek Falls is one of the more popular Blue Ridge waterfalls. The falls flow beautifully in the spring and summer, and the surrounding scenery is somewhat of a dream. The nearby valley is lush with rhododendron and other native wildflowers, which almost steal the show from the cascading falls. For more information on Long Creek Falls check out our Guide to Visiting Long Creek Falls In Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Trahlyta Falls
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Photo Credit: c_live_lee via Flickr CC2.0
Union County, Georgia
To reach the brilliant cascades of Trahlyta Falls, follow a short pathway (less than one mile) around Blood Mountain at Vogel State Park. As you make your way to the summit of the tallest peak on Georgia's Appalachian Trail, detour off a short side spur to reach the wooden observation deck at the falls, complete with a refreshing misty spray. The loop trail is accessible to visitors of all skill levels - and dogs! The "stair step" waterfall is 110-feet high.
Vogel State Park is located just south of Blairsville. While there, you can also check out swimming, boating, fishing, paddle boats, mini golf, and other fun activities. The 22-acre lake is stocked with thousands of trout each season, and the shady forests host miles of hiking trails.
Other Notable North Georgia Waterfalls
These beautiful falls are more than an hour's drive away from the central Blue Ridge area, but they are worth noting in case your journeys take you in their path! If you’re on the hunt for Georgia’s best waterfalls, pencil a few of these onto your itinerary.
- High Shoals Falls - Hiawassee, Georgia
- Blue Hole Falls - Hiawassee, Georgia
- Hemlock Falls - Chattahoochee National Forest
- Hurricane Falls - Tallulah Gorge State Park in Rabun County, Georgia
- Angel Falls - Lake Rabun in Rabun County, Georgia
- Horse Trough Falls - Union County, Georgia
- Becky Branch Falls - Rabun County, Georgia
- Anna Ruby Falls - near Unicoi State Park in White County, Georgia
- Jacks River Falls - Cohutta Wilderness Area
- Panther Falls - Rabun County, Georgia
- Toccoa Falls - on the campus of Toccoa Falls College in Stephens County, Georgia
- High Falls - High Falls State Park in Monroe County, Georgia
- Minnehaha Falls - Rabun County, Georgia
- Panther Creek Falls - Habersham County, Georgia
- Holcomb Creek Falls - Chattahoochee National Forest in Rabun County, Georgia
- Tallulah Falls - Tallulah Gorge State Park in Rabun County, Georgia
- Cherokee Falls - Cloudland Canyon State Park in Dade County, Georgia
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