There is a post going around titled The Ultimate Georgia Waterfall Road Trip. It claims to show one how to travel to 10 different waterfalls in Georgia in a single day. It's a wonderful idea, except the author is clearly not from Georgia and doesn't realize that almost all of our waterfalls are not road side attractions; a little hiking is required on almost every single one of them. Now, I'm not saying that the author was wrong or that the article is junk. On the contrary, I love the idea and have used it as a basis for an actual loop route that is more practical. Unfortunately, doing the loop in a day's time isn't possible (unless you are satisfied with zipping by the trail heads and not actually seeing a waterfall).
Also, this list got expanded to 13 falls (with some of these falls actually being two or more but counted as one) mainly because a few falls, like Duke Creek and Raven Cliff Falls are right there together and I can't see anyone doing one of the falls and not doing the other. Then there is also Currahee Mountain which is at the end of the trail. Another attraction I can not see anyone passing up when they are right there, but more about the historic significant at the end of this article.
So, here's a list of what to expect when actually taking this road trip.
1. 35.2 miles of hiking trails
2. 26 hours of hiking time
3. 264 road miles
4. 8 hours of travel time.
Does that look like something that can be done in a day? I think not.
Let's try THREE FULL DAYS!
Before some of you say "Phuq It!" and click on something else, think of this; There is nothing that says that it has to be done all in three consecutive days. There are hikers that hike the Appalachian Trail serially in section. Same with this here; each day can be done as a stand alone day.
I'm going to divide the rest of this article up into the days and say something about each fall and trail plus give the data on what to expect.
Day One
1. Amicalola Falls
This is the beginning of the loop with Amicalola Falls State Park near Dawsonsville, Ga. It would be highly recommended that whomever was going to do this loop would camp out here or near so as to get a fresh start in the morning. This park offers camping and lodging.
Spectacular scenery and hiking trails make this one of Georgia’s most popular state parks. At 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. Visitors have choices on how to best view the tumbling waters, ranging from an accessible pathway to a challenging trail with staircases. Those who tackle the latter can join the park’s Canyon Climbers Club. An 8.5-mile trail leads from the park to Springer Mountain, the southern end of the famous 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail. Numerous other trails provide shorter day hikes.
A mountain-top lodge is popular with guests who prefer hotel comforts, while cottages and a campground offer more rustic accommodations. The park's Maple Restaurant is known for its spectacular views and Sunday brunch buffet. For those seeking adventure, a five-mile hike leads to the Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia’s only backcountry lodge.
Park guests should begin their day with a stop at the visitor center to see maps, an Appalachian Trail display, live animals and gift shop. Please note that Amicalola Falls is exceptionally busy during peak leaf season. Guests may prefer to visit during the week or carpool on weekends. Advanced reservations for accommodations are highly recommended.
Address/Directions Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge
280 Amicalola Falls State Park Road
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Dawson County
GPS Coordinates: 34.562652 -84.247627
Located 15 miles northwest of Dawsonville on Highway 52. Take Highway 53 west to Highway 183 north to Highway 52 east.
Trail is 0.6 there and back that should take 0:45 minutes to complete. This also give about a half hour at the falls for pictures and rest.
Directions to Desoto Falls:
Follow Top of the Falls Rd and Amicalola Falls State Park Rd to GA-52 E (3 min (0.7 mi))
Follow GA-52 E to Torrington Rd in Lumpkin County (20 min (16.5 mi))
Follow Hamp Mill Rd and Oak Grove Rd to U.S. 19 BUS N (4 min (2.1 mi))
Drive to US-129 N/US-19 N (26 min (16.9 mi))
Frogtown Creek
2. DeSoto Falls
A 36 mile and approx one hour drive will get you to DeSoto Falls.
Two gorgeous waterfalls. A beautiful forest filled with tumbling creeks and gnarly, leathery-leafed rhododendron. And the site where, legend has, a piece of armor was found, thought by archeologists to be from the epic expedition of explorer Hernando de Soto in the mid 1500s. DeSoto Falls is well worth the visit. The two mile out-and-back DeSoto Falls Trail packs a lot of punch in a short distance, crossing a beautiful rhododendron and mossy boulder-filled creek before hiking to two rushing waterfalls through a shady young forest. This hike’s relatively short, kid-friendly distance and moderate elevation change make it one of North Georgia’s most popular waterfall hikes.
DeSoto Falls Trail: the hike
The DeSoto Falls Trail departs a paid parking area at the trailhead, hiking through a shaded picnic area equipped with tables and grills, and then turns left for a short hike on a paved road. Reaching a wooden bridge spanning the boulder-filled Frogtown Creek, the hike turns left, crossing the creek and catching upstream views of its rhododendron-lined banks.
Reaching the creek’s opposite bank, the hike meets a signed intersection. The hike turns left, veering southbound to first visit the lower falls. The trail rolls elevation through a shady forest and meanders through wide switchbacks, veering westbound to follow a small tributary upstream. The trail reaches a wooden viewing platform at just under .25 mile. Just ahead, Lower DeSoto Falls cascades over a nearly sheer rock outcrop, tumbling into a pool of water framed by large, lichen-covered boulders.
The hike departs the lower falls, retracing the trail to return to the Frogtown Creek bridge. The green-blazed DeSoto Falls Trail follows the creek upstream to the larger of the two waterfalls, hiking through vibrant green vegetation on the creek’s banks. The trail hikes through several large exposed rock outcrops and treks under the shade of several enormous old-growth pine trees, their wide trunks reaching high into the forest canopy above.
The trail begins a rolling climb through a mixed deciduous, pine, and rhododendron-filled forest as it hikes to the upper falls. The hike crosses a wooden bridge spanning a small, waterfall-filled creek before reaching the main attraction at just over a mile: the enormous, multi-tiered cascades of Upper DeSoto Falls.
The waterfall’s viewing platform makes a great spot for a mid-hike rest or picnic, and a great place to soak up the waterfall’s beauty. Departing the falls, the hike retraces its outbound route to return the Frogtown Creek bridge. Reaching the bridge, the hike turns east, crossing the bridge to return to the parking area and completing the hike at just over 2 miles.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
$3 per vehicle at the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area.
GPS COORDINATES
34.706596, -83.915254
N34 42.396 W83 54.915
Trail is about 2.5 hours and should take about 2.25 hours to hike.
Driving Direction to Helton Creek Falls
Head north on US-129 N/US-19 N (5.2 mi)
Turn right onto Helton Creek Rd
Destination will be on the right (2.2 mi)
Helton Creek
3. Helton Creek Falls
Catch two rushing waterfalls at Helton Creek Falls on this short, kid-friendly .6 mile hike north of Helen, Georgia near Vogel State Park.
Helton Creek Falls cascades in a set of two waterfalls, sliding down in tendrils through a beautiful, hemlock-filled creek valley. We’re featuring this double waterfall not for the hike itself – in fact, the difficulty and extremely short distance qualify this trail as more of a short walk in the woods. But this waterfall’s beauty makes it a great destination for visitors to Helen or nearby Vogel State Park – and a hike especially suited for families with kids.
Helton Creek Falls Trail: the hike
The hike begins at the Helton Creek Falls trailhead just south of Vogel State Park. The trail makes a short elevation dive and meander into a mixed deciduous, coniferous and rhododendron-filled forest. Several side creeks cross under the trail, trickling downward toward Helton Creek.
The hike descends, views of both the upper and lower Helton Creek waterfall becoming visible through the trees. The hike departs on a side trail to the left, descending via wooden stairs to view the Lower Helton Creek Falls. The lower waterfall slides down an angled rock face, spilling into a calm, clear pool of water below.
The hike departs the Lower Helton Creek Falls, retracing steps to climb the wooden stairs toward the main trail. The forest floor flanking the sides of Helton Creek is rich with life. Mosses and ferns thrive in the shady, damp valley – a brilliant green contrast to the decaying wood they overlay.
Reach the Upper Helton Creek Falls viewing platform at .2 mile. The larger of the two waterfalls, the upper falls drops steadily, following the curved contour of a massive exposed rock outcrop. Boulders and fallen trees line the waterfall’s base, where water collects briefly in a shallow pool before spilling downstream towards the lower falls.
The trail departs the upper falls, retracing steps to the trailhead and parking area and completing the hike at just under a half mile, having gained and lost 200 feet elevation.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
PARKING
Free parking is available at the Helton Creek Falls trailhead. Trailhead access is via a gravel Forest Service road.
GPS COORDINATES
34.753167, -83.894233
N34 45.190 W83 53.654
The trail is about 0.6 miles there and back that is mostly boardwalk and can easily done in 45 minute (this figures a half hour play time).
Driving Direction to Duke Creek
Head east on Helton Creek Rd toward Hatchet Creek Rd (0.6 mi)
Turn left onto Hatchet Creek Rd (1.3 mi)
Turn right onto GA-348 E (9.4 mi)
Turn right (0.1 mi)
Dukes Creek
4. Duke Creek
{Note: Duke Creek is farther south on Ga-348 than Raven Cliff so the parking for Raven Cliff will be passed first. If this is the weekend then check first the Raven Cliff parking since it is free but don't be surprise if the parking is SLAPDAB full. It's an easy walk from Raven Cliff to Duke Creek.}
Dukes Creek Falls Trail
Hike to multiple waterfalls and through a lush, green forest on the moderate, kid and dog-friendly Dukes Creek Falls Trail near Helen, Georgia.
The Dukes Creek Trail hikes a moderate 2 miles out and back through a beautiful, mountain stream-filled forest in Georgia just north of Helen. The trail descends alongside a usually-shallow stream, hiking to several large, cascading waterfalls that tumble at the convergence of Davis Creek and Dukes Creek. Several generously large wooden viewing platforms below the falls offer a stunning glimpse at the main attraction overhead: the exceptionally scenic, multi-tiered, 150-foot-tall drop of Dukes Creek Falls.
Hike the Dukes Creek Falls Trail to this enormous, tumbling, 150-foot-tall waterfall near Helen, Georgia
The trail’s relatively short length and moderate elevation gain make it a popular hike for families with kids – or a great stop-off for travelers in this scenic and popular North Georgia area. And the trail (at least a small portion) is paved and accessible, too, allowing hikers of all abilities to catch a glimpse of the falls from an upper viewing deck.
Dukes Creek Falls Trail: the hike
The hike departs the Dukes Creek trailhead (view driving directions and maps) after catching a stunning view of nearby Yonah Mountain from a clearing in the parking area. Yonah’s uniquely shaped summit and enormous exposed rock outcrops make the mountain an iconic, easy to recognize landmark near Helen. (It’s a fantastic hike, too – though definitely challenging!)
Catch distant views of nearby Yonah Mountain from the Dukes Creek Falls trailhead near Helen, GA
The trail passes the ADA-accessible viewing platform at .1 mile, departing the pavement and beginning a descent to to the base of the falls. The hike drops elevation on a series of stairs and platforms before meeting a trail junction at .3 mile. A right turn at the junction hikes a short detour to Davis Creek, where cool, crystalline water flows over mossy boulders shaded by the high forest canopy above. (It’s an great detour for kids and dogs, especially on the mostly-uphill return hike from the base of Dukes Creek Falls.)
The main trail swings a hard left turn at the trail intersection, hiking southwest and continuing to descend into the lush, green creek valley. The trail courses three sharp switchbacks over the one mile hike to the falls, offering glimpses and ever-growing sounds of the towering, tumbling waterfall.
The trail reaches the trio of Dukes Creek Falls viewing platforms at 1 mile, offering excellent views of the waterfalls cascading from the towering cliff above. To the right, Davis Creek tumbles in short waterfalls and slides down the exposed rock face toward the base of Dukes Creek Falls. And far above, Dukes Creek plummets from a tall cliff, dropping 150 feet into the clear, rocky basins of water below.
The base of the falls is a great place to relax, take in the natural beauty, and (if you packed one) enjoy a quick snack before making the uphill climb back to the trailhead. Departing the waterfalls, the Dukes Creek Falls Trail retraces its outbound hike to the trailhead, completing the hike at 2 miles.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
Nearby hiking at Raven Cliff Falls
In the area with daylight and energy to spare? Don’t miss the incredible waterfalls on the nearby Raven Cliff Falls Trail, which is a short drive north from Dukes Creek Falls. The five mile Raven Cliff Falls Trail hikes a beautiful, waterfall-filled valley to a massive waterfall that slices through a sheer, towering cliff at the trail’s end. And while it’s more the double the distance of the Dukes Creek Falls Trail, it’s not an exceptionally difficult hike. And the mile-after-mile of tumbling waterfalls make it well worth the while.
PARKING
Parking at Dukes Creek Recreation Area is $4 per vehicle.
GPS COORDINATES
34.702063, -83.789413
N34 42.124 W83 47.365
Trail is 2.0 mile out and back need about 1:30 hr to hike, ( 1/2 hour play time). The elevation change coming back is a challenge.
Driving Direction to Raven Cliff
Head north toward GA-348 E (0.1 mi)
Turn left onto GA-348 W (1.0 mi)
Turn left
Destination will be on the left (0.1 mi)
Raven Cliff.
5. Raven Cliff
Raven Cliff Falls Trail
Hike the Raven Cliff Falls Trail 4.9 miles through a waterfall-filled valley to one of Georgia's most popular and beautiful waterfalls, Raven Cliff Falls.
Packed with beautiful, cascading waterfalls, the 5 mile, moderate Raven Cliff Falls Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in North Georgia.
Dodd Creek slices the enormous Raven Cliff in two, creating the beautiful - and unique - Raven Cliff Falls waterfall
Hike this trail to a gorgeous waterfall that cascades through a 40-foot-tall, towering cliff, slicing the enormous rock outcrop in half. And catch wildflower and waterfall-filled beauty throughout the trail’s 2.5 miles: the Raven Cliff Trail follows a beautiful, rushing trout stream in a shady, moss-filled forest.
Raven Cliff Falls Trail: the hike
The hike climbs from the trailhead, grabbing elevation along a short incline and following Dodd Creek upstream. The Raven Cliff Falls Trail levels at .25 mile before descending toward the creek. A side trail departs trail right toward a campsite on the creek’s sharply meandering bend – the site of a 4-5 foot deep swimming hole (our dog’s favorite pre-hike and post-hike swim). The trail crosses the creek via a large wooden bridge before climbing the right bank of the creek, hiking through a mossy forest and crossing several small creek tributaries.
The Raven Cliff Falls trail hikes through a mossy, rich forest in North Georgia
Many steeply-banked side trails depart on trail left, leading to multi-tiered waterfalls cascading beneath the forest canopy. Wildflowers line the creek’s banks, stretching to catch sunlight in the mossy, green, lush forest.
The trail to Raven Cliff is filled with beautiful, rushing waterfalls
The sound of rushing water amplifies through the valley as the hike approaches Raven Cliff at 2 miles. The lower Raven Cliff Falls become visible as the trail climbs elevation, turning northwest to approach the enormous cliff.
The Raven Cliff Falls Trail hikes to the towering Raven Cliff north of Helen, Georgia
The base of the cliff reveals a massive fracture through the towering granite slab, the creek flowing deep within the sharply-angled cliff walls.
Waterfalls cascade through the beautiful North Georgia forest on the Raven Cliff Falls Trail
The Raven Cliff Trail departs the towering waterfall, retracing its steps to follow Dodd Creek downstream to return to the trailhead. The hike completes at just under 5 miles, reaching the Raven Cliff Falls parking area. In the area with daylight – and energy – to burn? Catch the nearby beautiful waterfalls at Dukes Creek Falls, a short 1 mile, paved hike just south of the Raven Cliff Falls trailhead on GA 348.
Raven Cliff Falls camping
Raven Cliff Falls is a popular camping destination. Trailhead campsites offer great stream-side camping just steps from the car, and a fantastic base camp for hiking the Raven Cliff Falls Trail during the day. The trail is also dotted with many backpacking campsites on the creek’s level banks, offering a little more solitude for campers willing to backpack it in.
Black bear frequent the Raven Cliff Wilderness. Keep all food items and fragrant cosmetics out of reach in a bear canister – we lost our camp stove, food and cookware to a trio of bears in a traditionally-hung bear bag at Raven Cliff.
Sites are free and first-come, first-claimed. Pack out everything you pack in: this is one of Georgia’s most beautiful creek valleys, so please leave no trace.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
Free parking is available at the Raven Cliff Trailhead.
GPS COORDINATES
34.709969,-83.788837
N34 42.598 W83 47.330
This should end up day one with 10.7 miles and 8 hours of hiking. Camping is allowed on the Raven Cliff trail on a first come first served basis. Or there should be ample lodging in both Helen, Ga and Unicoi lodge. Unicoi Lodge is right at Anna Ruby Falls which is the first waterfall for the next day.
Day Two
After a restful night sleep one should be ready for the next day of activities. Depending on where one stayed the night at dictates the route taken to the next fall but let's assume that the starting point is Raven Cliff Trailhead.
Driving Direction to Anna Ruby Falls
Start at Dukes Creek
Head northeast toward GA-348 W (0.1 mi)
Turn right onto GA-348 E (2.7 mi)
Turn left onto GA-75Alt S (2.3 mi)
Turn right onto GA-17 S/GA-75 S (0.4 mi)
Turn left onto GA-356 E (1.3 mi)
Slight left onto Anna Ruby Falls Rd (1.4 mi)
Turn left to stay on Anna Ruby Falls Rd (2.1 mi)
3455 Anna Ruby Falls Road
Sautee, GA 30571
6. Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls Trail
Hike the paved Anna Ruby Falls Trail to the beautiful, rare double waterfalls at Anna Ruby Falls near Helen. This less-than-1-mile hike trails a waterfall-filled creek, and is kid-friendly, stroller-friendly and dog-friendly, too.
Anna Ruby Falls features a pair of beautiful waterfalls, cascading in tandem through a gorgeous slice of North Georgia forest. The twin waterfalls spill from a towering cliff in wispy white tendrils before splashing, spilling and pooling over mossy boulders. Anna Ruby Falls is a great North Georgia outdoor destination in any season – and its close proximity to Alpine Helen and Unicoi State Park make it one of North Georgia’s most popular waterfall hikes.
Hike the Anna Ruby Falls Trail to the double waterfall at Anna Ruby Falls near Helen, Georgia
The hike is a relatively easy one, and though the outbound trek is mostly uphill, the trail is paved and just under a half mile. The trail is kid-friendly, stroller-friendly and dog-friendly (but dogs must be leashed on a 6′ leash). And while the twin Anna Ruby Falls waterfalls are clearly the main attraction, the trail itself is a beautiful one. The trail climbs to Anna Ruby Falls alongside a waterfall-filled creek, catching views of Smith Creek spilling and splashing through the boulder-filled forest. Scenic beauty throughout the trail, a rare double waterfall and relatively easy access make the Anna Ruby Falls Trail one of North Georgia’s most popular, and worth a visit.
Anna Ruby Falls Trail: the hike
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail departs the park’s visitor’s center, located just outside Unicoi State Park (view maps and driving directions). The paved trail climbs a ridge above Smith Creek under the canopy of tall trees, framed by shorter, twisted, gnarly-branched rhododendron. Angled rock outcrops, covered in green moss, frame the trail’s left side as Smith Creek loudly tumbles through the forest to the right.
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail crosses a bridge over the creek at .15 miles, grabbing an up-close view of the creek. Smith Creek loudly tumbles over the boulders in the creek’s bed, forming multiple tiers of short, cascading waterfalls.
The trail climbs steadily through the forest, the creek now flowing downhill on the trail’s left side. In the excitement of reaching the falls, don’t forget to keep watch for wildlife near the trail. And in warmer months, look for vibrant green mosses and colorful wildflowers along the sides of the trail. (But for your own safety, and to preserve the beauty of forest, don’t leave the paved trail!)
The roaring tumble of Anna Ruby Falls becomes louder as the waterfalls become visible through the forest’s trees. The trail levels briefly at .25 mile, passing several giant, tumbled boulders, before beginning its final climb to Anna Ruby Falls. The trail reaches the first of two wooden viewing platforms at just under .4 mile, catching wide views of the twin falls.
The waterfalls at Anna Ruby Falls are formed as two creeks, Curtis Creek and York Creek, tumble over a large, towering cliff. The Curtis Creek waterfall is the larger of the two, on the left, tumbling over 150 feet into the boulder-filled basin below. York Creek, on the right, spills 50 feet before joining Curtis Creek at the base of the waterfall. The joined creeks form Smith Creek, which eventually flows through Unicoi State Park to Helen, joining the Chattahoochee River as it flows to Atlanta.
After taking in the falls from the platforms (and, of course, grabbing a photo or two!), the hike turns around, doubling back on the outbound trail to return to the trailhead. The Anna Ruby Falls Trail completes at .9 miles, the roar of the cascading creek fading behind.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
PARKING
$3 per person. Leashed dogs are allowed.
GPS COORDINATES
34.757967, -83.710150
N34 45.478 W83 42.609
Trail is 0.9 miles and is considered moderate. Give about an 1:30 hiking and fun time to be on the safe side.
Driving Direction to Panther Falls.
3455 Anna Ruby Falls Road, Sautee, GA 30571
Head west (446 ft)
Continue onto Anna Ruby Falls Rd (3.3 mi)
Sharp left onto GA-356 E (9.5 mi)
Turn left onto GA-197 N (3.1 mi)
Turn right onto Burton Dam Rd (2.9 mi)
Continue onto Seed Lake Rd (4.4 mi)
Continue onto Lake Rabun Rd (1.8 mi)
Lake Rabun Road
Lakemont, GA 30552
7. Panther Falls & Angel Falls
Hike the Angel Falls Trail at the Lake Rabun Beach campground in North Georgia to two beautiful waterfalls, Angel Falls and Panther Falls.
trail info
1.75 MILES MODERATE
TRAIL LOCATION: Rabun County near Clayton
Nestled deep in rolling mountains, Lake Rabun’s winding shoreline and glassy waters are a popular North Georgia destination for hiking, boating, kayaking and camping. Just below Lake Rabun’s dam, the Tallulah River plummets in a series of enormous waterfalls deep into the steep-walled depths of Tallulah Gorge.
Near the historic lakeside town of Lakemont, the Angel Falls Trail explores two tumbling waterfalls, Panther Falls and Angel Falls, in a beautiful creek valley near the Lake Rabun Beach Campground. Hiking less than two miles, round trip, the Angel Falls Trail is a fantastic family-friendly hike for campers at the campground, and well-worthy of a visit for anyone exploring the namesake lake of Rabun County.
Angel Falls Trail at Lake Rabun: the hike
The Angel Falls Trail departs from a trailhead in Loop 2 of the Lake Rabun Beach Campground (view maps and driving directions). The trail follows Joe Creek upstream, crossing a wooden bridge and catching sight of a small, multi-tiered waterfall near the trailhead. The hike ascends stone stairs, climbing elevation into a shady forest filled with fern, rhododendron and mountain laurel.
The Angel Falls Trail continues its ascent, Joe Creek tumbling over a rocky creek bed on trail right. The hike reaches a historic, moss-covered stone bench at .3 mile, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps at the site of a small spring in the early 20th century. Now diverted, the spring once flowed through the stone channel below the bench, a source of water for the nearby CCC camp.
The trail passes a large, rocky, mossy outcrop on trail right before crossing two bridges, the sound of Panther Falls growing louder. The Angel Falls Trail reaches Panther Falls at just under .6 mile, where Joe Creek cascades down a stair-stepped rock outcrop into a tranquil pool of water below.
Departing Panther Falls, the hike hangs a right, climbing the trail’s steepest stretch through a sharp switchback. (Metal cables serve as a safety railing on this stretch of the trail; extra caution should be taken with dogs and children.) The hike climbs, reaching a trail loop; a turn in either direction leads to Angel Falls.
The trail reaches this hike’s second waterfall at .9 miles, catching views of Angel Falls from a wooden platform. Above, the waterfall cascades down over an angled, multi-tiered rock face framed in leafy rhododendron.
Departing Angel Falls, the hike retraces its steps to the trailhead, pausing at Panther Falls on the return hike for one last look at the waterfall. The hike reaches the Angel Falls trailhead at the Rabun Beach Campground at 1.75 miles, completing the hike.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
PARKING
$4 (daily). Camping at the Lake Rabun Beach campground? Walk to the trailhead and save the parking fee.
GPS COORDINATES
34.761333, -83.472700
N34 45.680 W83 28.362
Driving Direction to Ammons Falls
Lake Rabun Road
Lakemont, GA 30552
Follow Lake Rabun Rd, US-23 N/US-441 N and Warwoman Rd to Fs S7/Hale Ridge Rd (37 min (22.4 mi))
Continue on Hale Ridge Rd. Drive to Fs 696 (28 min (8.3 mi))
Fs 696
Dillard, GA 30537
Hike the Angel Falls Trail at the Lake Rabun Beach campground in North Georgia to two beautiful waterfalls, Angel Falls and Panther Falls.
trail info
1.75 MILES MODERATE
TRAIL LOCATION: Rabun County near Clayton
Nestled deep in rolling mountains, Lake Rabun’s winding shoreline and glassy waters are a popular North Georgia destination for hiking, boating, kayaking and camping. Just below Lake Rabun’s dam, the Tallulah River plummets in a series of enormous waterfalls deep into the steep-walled depths of Tallulah Gorge.
Near the historic lakeside town of Lakemont, the Angel Falls Trail explores two tumbling waterfalls, Panther Falls and Angel Falls, in a beautiful creek valley near the Lake Rabun Beach Campground. Hiking less than two miles, round trip, the Angel Falls Trail is a fantastic family-friendly hike for campers at the campground, and well-worthy of a visit for anyone exploring the namesake lake of Rabun County.
Above: Panther Falls cascades down toward the Lake Rabun shore on the Angel Falls Trail
Angel Falls Trail at Lake Rabun: the hike
The Angel Falls Trail departs from a trailhead in Loop 2 of the Lake Rabun Beach Campground (view maps and driving directions). The trail follows Joe Creek upstream, crossing a wooden bridge and catching sight of a small, multi-tiered waterfall near the trailhead. The hike ascends stone stairs, climbing elevation into a shady forest filled with fern, rhododendron and mountain laurel.
The Angel Falls Trail continues its ascent, Joe Creek tumbling over a rocky creek bed on trail right. The hike reaches a historic, moss-covered stone bench at .3 mile, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps at the site of a small spring in the early 20th century. Now diverted, the spring once flowed through the stone channel below the bench, a source of water for the nearby CCC camp.
The trail passes a large, rocky, mossy outcrop on trail right before crossing two bridges, the sound of Panther Falls growing louder. The Angel Falls Trail reaches Panther Falls at just under .6 mile, where Joe Creek cascades down a stair-stepped rock outcrop into a tranquil pool of water below.
Departing Panther Falls, the hike hangs a right, climbing the trail’s steepest stretch through a sharp switchback. (Metal cables serve as a safety railing on this stretch of the trail; extra caution should be taken with dogs and children.) The hike climbs, reaching a trail loop; a turn in either direction leads to Angel Falls.
Angle Falls.
The trail reaches this hike’s second waterfall at .9 miles, catching views of Angel Falls from a wooden platform. Above, the waterfall cascades down over an angled, multi-tiered rock face framed in leafy rhododendron.
Departing Angel Falls, the hike retraces its steps to the trailhead, pausing at Panther Falls on the return hike for one last look at the waterfall. The hike reaches the Angel Falls trailhead at the Rabun Beach Campground at 1.75 miles, completing the hike.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
PARKING
$4 (daily). Camping at the Lake Rabun Beach campground? Walk to the trailhead and save the parking fee.
GPS COORDINATES
34.761333, -83.472700
N34 45.680 W83 28.362
Driving Direction to Ammons Falls
Lake Rabun Road
Lakemont, GA 30552
Follow Lake Rabun Rd, US-23 N/US-441 N and Warwoman Rd to Fs S7/Hale Ridge Rd (37 min (22.4 mi))
Continue on Hale Ridge Rd. Drive to Fs 696 (28 min (8.3 mi))
Fs 696
Dillard, GA 30537
9. Ammons Falls & Holcomb Creek Falls
Waterfall Description: The 1.75 mile loop trail that encompasses Ammons Creek Falls and the 120-foot Holcomb Creek Falls gives visitors a look at an entire waterfall system.
Ammoms Falls
Holcomb Creek Falls
It is from the stream that feeds it at the top to the water flowing downstream away from the base of the falls.
The trail can be accessed at two points, one at the intersection of Hale Ridge Road (FS 7) and Overflow Road (FS 86), and the second further up Overflow Road just past a bridge. The trailhead near the bridge offers a gentler slope and easier access to the falls.
This will end the second day. Either camping in the area can be done or one can make their way down to Tallulah Falls where both camping and lodging can be found.
GPS Coordinates:
34.983433 -83.266835
Direction to Tallulah Falls
Holcomb Creek
Follow Hale Ridge Rd to Warwoman Rd (21 min (6.6 mi))
Follow Warwoman Rd and US-23 S/US-441 S to Jane Hurt Yarn Rd in Tallulah Falls (28 min (20.8 mi))
Drive to your destination (3 min (0.9 mi))
Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Day Three
The next falls on the list is a doozy ; Tallulah Gorge. This area along can make a full day.
Here's the rundown.
11. Tallulah Gorge
Run, climb, bike or hike Tallulah Gorge State Park, exploring beautiful waterfalls, steep-sided canyons and serene riverbanks near Tallulah Falls, Georgia.
Tallulah Gorge State Park is one of North Georgia’s most popular destinations for outdoor adventure. The gorge, a giant two-mile-long gash in Georgia’s rolling terrain, drops nearly 1000 feet deep over near-vertical walls to the remote canyon floor below.
Peer into the gorge’s depths from the rim’s dizzying heights. Catch sight of Tallulah Falls, the gorge’s series of six spectacular rushing waterfalls. Plummet to the gorge floor via a seemingly never-ending series of stairs to cross a swaying suspension bridge that towers 80 feet over the rushing Tallulah River. Catch an up-close view of the Hurricane Falls waterfall from an observation deck deep within the gorge. Score a gorge floor permit (limited to 100 per day and not available on dam release days; check the park’s schedule) to cross the Tallulah River and scramble over the boulder-filled Sliding Rock Trail. Or venture upstream from Tallulah Gorge for a run, bike or nature walk on the Shortline Trail, where the Tallulah River, which flows from headwaters on Standing Indian Mountain in North Carolina, flows quiet, calm and serene.
Hike the Tallulah Gorge trails to dizzying views of the Tallulah River's waterfalls deep within the gorge
The hiking, biking and trail running options at Tallulah Gorge are plentiful – and the sights are simply stunning. From the barely-perceptible flow of the Tallulah River upstream from the dam, to the tremendous, tumultuous, powerfall waterfalls deep within the gorge, there’s a whole lot of outdoor adventure to be found at the park.
These are our Tallulah Gorge State Park favorites – the trails we’ve loved and hiked year after year, season after season, enjoying their beauty with newfound awe on every visit. They’re listed in ascending order of difficulty, from easiest to hardest. Explore them all, to get a full dose of Tallulah Gorge beauty – and overnight at the park’s campsites, backcountry campsites or pioneer camp for an amazing multi-day adventure.
NOTE: Before you go, be sure to check the Tallulah Gorge State Park dam release schedule. Hiking in the gorge is not allowed on water release dates.
Run, walk or bike the Shortline Trail, a former rail trail on the banks of the smooth-flowing Tallulah River north of Tallulah Gorge
EXPLORE TALLULAH GORGE’S OLD RAIL CORRIDOR
Unlike most other trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park, this former rail trail follows a nearly-level, paved path that’s perfect for a shady, scenic run, walk or bike ride. And unlike the dramatic, tumbling waterfalls downstream, the Tallulah River flows calm and serene along the Shortline Trail – a beautiful contrast to the river on the park’s other trails.
2.8 MILES
Hike the North Rim and South Rim Trails at Tallulah Gorge State Park for stunning canyon and waterfall views
CATCH TALLULAH’S STUNNING GORGE RIM VIEWS
Hiking the North Rim & South Rim Trails
Hike a two-trail combo, the North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail, to peer deep into the gorge’s depths and catch sight of the Tallulah Falls waterfalls from towering heights. It’s the fairly easy, and fairly level, option to see Tallulah Gorge’s most grand sights without scaling hundreds of steps or scrambling over a boulder-ridden trail.
2.5 MILES
Hike the Hurricane Falls Trail at Tallulah Gorge State Park, descending stairs deep into the gorge and crossing a suspension bridge for up-close views of the Hurricane Falls waterfall
CROSS A DIZZYING SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Hiking the Hurricane Falls Trail at Tallulah Gorge
It’s the hands-down most popular trail at Tallulah Gorge State Park. The Hurricane Falls Trail descends a pulse-raising number of stairs to the park’s suspension bridge, crossing the 80-foot high bridge over the roaring Tallulah River. Descend more stairs to visit the base of the thundering Hurricane Falls waterfall before making an epic stair climb back to the rim. It’s a great workout!
2.25 MILES
The Sliding Rock Trail is anything but easy, and due to its difficulty, requires a gorge floor permit from the park’s ranger desk. But it’s by far the most scenic, making a deep descent into a remote section of the gorge floor to visit Bridal Veil Falls and a deep swimming hole that’s perfect for a mid-hike chill.
3.4 MILES
An alternative to doing all ten miles as listed is doing the North Rim and the South Rim with the Hurricane Falls Trail and cross the suspension bridge. This will cut the hike down to about 4.75 miles and can be done in 2 1/2 hours.
GPS Coordinates: 34.740217 -83.390500
The next trail is the Minnehaha Falls. Just nine miles away and a hike of only .4 miles.
Direction to Minnehaha Falls
Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Take Jane Hurt Yarn Rd to US-23 N/US-441 N
4 min (0.9 mi)
Follow US-23 N/US-441 N to Shirley Grove Rd in Habersham County
4 min (2.9 mi)
Follow Col Hough Rd to Bear Gap Rd in Rabun County
22 min (6.0 mi)
Falls Branch
12. Minnehaha Falls
Hike the Minnehaha Falls Trail, a short, easy, kid-friendly hike on Lake Rabun in North Georgia, to a beautiful, towering, cascading waterfall.
Trail info
.4 MILE EASY
TRAIL LOCATION: Rabun County near Clayton
Near the banks of Lake Rabun, Falls Creek cascades down into a beautiful forest, forming one of North Georgia’s most popular waterfalls. Minnehaha Falls spills over a cliff in a gorgeous, multi-tiered waterfall before continuing its downstream journey to the Lake Rabun shore. The trail is exceptionally short, and an easy one as well. But it’s well worth a visit on a warm Spring or Summer afternoon to catch views of this outstandingly beautiful waterfall.
Minnehaha Falls cascades into a rhododendron-filled forest near Lake Rabun in Georgia
This uniquely-named falls gets its name from the Dakota (Native American) word for ‘waterfall’. (No, it’s not text-message speak for ‘small laugh’, though often misspelled ‘minihaha’.) It’s also common place name in Minnesota, where a smaller, single-drop waterfall is also named Minnehaha Falls.
The beauty of the taller, multi-tiered North Georgia Minnehaha Falls, despite the short trail length, makes it well-worth a visit, and makes it especially kid-friendly, too.
Minnehaha Falls Trail: the hike
The hike departs the trailhead, marked with a green diamond and the number 147 off Bear Gap Road near Lakemont, Georgia. The hike ascends a wooden staircase, trekking southwest toward the waterfall.
The hike gently rolls elevation, trekking on a well-worn trail beside Falls Creek. Gnarly-branched rhododendron cover the landscape, their blue-green leaves a contrast to Georgia’s iron-rich, orange-tinged soil. The rhododendron’s thick, leathery leaves are evergreen, making the hike green and color-filled hike in any season.
The Minnehaha Falls trail hikes .2 mile through a rhododendron-filled forest to a gorgeous waterfall
The waterfall quickly becomes audible, thundering down into the creek valley. Several smaller waterfalls form Minnehaha’s lower falls, visible from the trail between thickets of dense rhododendron.
The lower cascades of Minnehaha Falls
The hike reaches Minnehaha Falls at just under .2 mile, entering a clearing below the waterfall. Several enormous, scattered boulders dot the landscape below the falls. The crest of the waterfall towers overhead, Falls Creek spilling from down over sharply angled terraces.
Minnehaha Falls spills from a towering cliff near the banks of Lake Rabun in Georgia
After admiring the falls from a distance, the hike retraces its steps on the Minnehaha Falls Trail, reaching Bear Gap Road at just under .4 mile and completing the hike.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
GPS Coordinates: 34.749633 -83.479083
From here the next stop will be Toccoa Falls at Toccoa College. 29 miles away but still a short hike.
Direction to Toccoa Falls
Hike the Minnehaha Falls Trail, a short, easy, kid-friendly hike on Lake Rabun in North Georgia, to a beautiful, towering, cascading waterfall.
Trail info
.4 MILE EASY
TRAIL LOCATION: Rabun County near Clayton
Near the banks of Lake Rabun, Falls Creek cascades down into a beautiful forest, forming one of North Georgia’s most popular waterfalls. Minnehaha Falls spills over a cliff in a gorgeous, multi-tiered waterfall before continuing its downstream journey to the Lake Rabun shore. The trail is exceptionally short, and an easy one as well. But it’s well worth a visit on a warm Spring or Summer afternoon to catch views of this outstandingly beautiful waterfall.
Minnehaha Falls cascades into a rhododendron-filled forest near Lake Rabun in Georgia
This uniquely-named falls gets its name from the Dakota (Native American) word for ‘waterfall’. (No, it’s not text-message speak for ‘small laugh’, though often misspelled ‘minihaha’.) It’s also common place name in Minnesota, where a smaller, single-drop waterfall is also named Minnehaha Falls.
The beauty of the taller, multi-tiered North Georgia Minnehaha Falls, despite the short trail length, makes it well-worth a visit, and makes it especially kid-friendly, too.
Minnehaha Falls Trail: the hike
The hike departs the trailhead, marked with a green diamond and the number 147 off Bear Gap Road near Lakemont, Georgia. The hike ascends a wooden staircase, trekking southwest toward the waterfall.
The hike gently rolls elevation, trekking on a well-worn trail beside Falls Creek. Gnarly-branched rhododendron cover the landscape, their blue-green leaves a contrast to Georgia’s iron-rich, orange-tinged soil. The rhododendron’s thick, leathery leaves are evergreen, making the hike green and color-filled hike in any season.
The Minnehaha Falls trail hikes .2 mile through a rhododendron-filled forest to a gorgeous waterfall
The waterfall quickly becomes audible, thundering down into the creek valley. Several smaller waterfalls form Minnehaha’s lower falls, visible from the trail between thickets of dense rhododendron.
The lower cascades of Minnehaha Falls
The hike reaches Minnehaha Falls at just under .2 mile, entering a clearing below the waterfall. Several enormous, scattered boulders dot the landscape below the falls. The crest of the waterfall towers overhead, Falls Creek spilling from down over sharply angled terraces.
Minnehaha Falls spills from a towering cliff near the banks of Lake Rabun in Georgia
After admiring the falls from a distance, the hike retraces its steps on the Minnehaha Falls Trail, reaching Bear Gap Road at just under .4 mile and completing the hike.
Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall.
GPS Coordinates: 34.749633 -83.479083
From here the next stop will be Toccoa Falls at Toccoa College. 29 miles away but still a short hike.
Direction to Toccoa Falls
Falls Branch
Head west on Bear Gap Rd toward Low Gap Rd
7 min (1.6 mi)
Follow Lake Rabun Rd, US-23 S/US-441 S and GA 17Alt S to Forrest Dr in Stephens County
38 min (26.8 mi)
Take Kincaid Dr and Forrest Dr to your destination in Toccoa
6 min (1.0 mi)
Toccoa Falls
13. Toccoa Falls
A beautiful 186-foot-high waterfall, Toccoa Falls is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. It is located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College, a four-year, fully accredited Christian college.
A meandering stream flows through the lower part of the 1,000-acre, wooded campus from the base of the waterfall. This spectacular waterfall, higher than Niagara Falls, is a popular tourist attraction and campus retreat. The short 100-yard path to the falls is handicap accessible.
Toccoa Falls is accessed through the gift shop which is open from 8:30 a.m. until sundown. A nominal admission fee is collected in the gift shop.
Ticket Prices:
Children 6 and under: Free
Adults: $2
Seniors: $1
Family of 4 or more: $6
The Gate Cottage Gift Shop offers souvenirs of Toccoa Falls, furniture made in the Toccoa area, crafts from local craftsmen, and other gift items including Village Candles and any other great companies.
The story of Toccoa Falls includes a tragic footnote. The Kelly Barnes Dam, located above the Toccoa Falls Bible College, failed in the early morning hours of Nov. 6, 1977. Thirty-nine people died in the resulting flood, which inundated part of the campus including a trailer park. It was the worst natural disaster in Georgia in more than 40 years.
GPS Coordinates: 34.596111 -83.360000
Now we come to the mountain I've spoken of: Currahee Mouuntain. 10.8 miles away.
Direction:
A beautiful 186-foot-high waterfall, Toccoa Falls is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. It is located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College, a four-year, fully accredited Christian college.
A meandering stream flows through the lower part of the 1,000-acre, wooded campus from the base of the waterfall. This spectacular waterfall, higher than Niagara Falls, is a popular tourist attraction and campus retreat. The short 100-yard path to the falls is handicap accessible.
Toccoa Falls is accessed through the gift shop which is open from 8:30 a.m. until sundown. A nominal admission fee is collected in the gift shop.
Ticket Prices:
Children 6 and under: Free
Adults: $2
Seniors: $1
Family of 4 or more: $6
The Gate Cottage Gift Shop offers souvenirs of Toccoa Falls, furniture made in the Toccoa area, crafts from local craftsmen, and other gift items including Village Candles and any other great companies.
The story of Toccoa Falls includes a tragic footnote. The Kelly Barnes Dam, located above the Toccoa Falls Bible College, failed in the early morning hours of Nov. 6, 1977. Thirty-nine people died in the resulting flood, which inundated part of the campus including a trailer park. It was the worst natural disaster in Georgia in more than 40 years.
GPS Coordinates: 34.596111 -83.360000
Now we come to the mountain I've spoken of: Currahee Mouuntain. 10.8 miles away.
Direction:
Toccoa Falls
Take Forrest Dr and Kincaid Dr to GA 17Alt S/Toccoa Falls Rd
5 min (1.0 mi)
Take US-123 S to W Currahee St/Dicks Hill Pkwy
9 min (5.1 mi)
Drive to Currahee Mountain Rd
18 min (4.7 mi)
Currahee Mountain Road
Toccoa, GA 30577
14. Currahee Mountain
Hike or run the historic Currahee Mountain, the mountain of "Band of Brothers" fame near Toccoa Falls, to long-range summit views.
“Three Miles Up, Three Miles Down!” Not the most encouraging words you want to hear when you’re setting out on an outdoor adventure. Unless you’re a history nut like me.
In 2001, just after I enlisted in the army. I read Stephen Ambrose’s book, “Band of Brothers,” and immediately felt like I knew the men of Easy Company, 506th PIR personally. A few months later, all of our lives changed one September morning; I would end up at Fort Bragg, N.C. and earned the Airborne tab on my shoulder. Though not a Screaming Eagle of the 506th, my connection to the men in the book, for various reasons, some obvious, was growing stronger. When HBO released “Band of Brothers,” the miniseries, I felt a pull to run Currahee Mountain. The same mountain braver men than me ran several times a week at Camp Toccoa between 1942 and 1944. Men who were attending Army Airborne training during WWII. Men who would put their lives on pause for our country. Some men – many in fact – who would never again see the country they would go to war defending.
Run or hike the historic Currahee Mountain Trail in north Georgia
Currahee Mountain sits at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northeast, GA and its name, “Currahee,” meaning, “stand alone,” in Cherokee, became part of the motto of the 506th: “Stand alone… together.” A motto that meant so much to men that would easily find themselves alone, or in small groups, far behind enemy lines.
I thought of these soldiers way back in 2001 and 2002. And again, they were in my thoughts as I parked at the bottom of Currahee Mountain and assessed the challenge in front of me. There was no time limit and no reason to run up Currahee, save for honoring the memory of the men who gave so much so I could decide, if I felt like it, to run or walk, in their footsteps. But off I went…
Hike Curahee Mountain, featured in 'Band of Brothers', in the Blue Ridge Mountains
In the year that my family has been in the Atlanta area we have tried to do all the things that continue to drive our interests – explore, explore, explore. We have annual passes to Stone Mountain Park and have hiked some trails and seen some waterfalls, but every time we’ve planned a day trip with the family I kept regretting I wasn’t running Currahee. So, on a recent Saturday with the wife and kids away, I woke up way too early and drove northeast and hour and a half with a big smile on my face. I was going to run Currahee Mountain.
Run the steps of the Easy Company at Currahee Mountain in Georgia
Now, if you’re interested in running, walking, biking, or skipping up the mountain, I’m happy to provide a few pointers. First, be well hydrated. If you can, bring water, because there are no water stops along the way or at the top. You will need water.
Second, don’t be afraid of the mountain. Yes, it’s roughly three miles up, gradually ascending for much of the run, before a sharp increase at a switchback near the top that brought me from a slow jog to a slow walk. There’s no shame in taking your time, because unlike the men of Easy Co, there is no CPT Sobel barking at you to pick up the pace. In fact, if you’re lucky enough to go on a day where the sun is out and the clouds are minimal, the view is well worth enjoying at every step. For me, I had it in my mind to take in the view after I reached the top. My mind’s motor was working through thoughts of the men who’s iron will was forged on this same mountain road 70-some years ago. I thought about my grandfather who was in WWII at Normandy and Bastogne, my six years in the Army, my brother who still serves, and the millions of Americans who have taken the oath.
Running Currahee Mountain in Georgia: three miles up, three miles down
Back to my adventure of this sliver of the Blue Ridge. Obviously the best part is the feeling you have once you reach the top, around 1700 feet above sea level (Yes, you may feel as great as I did once I made it back to my car, but that’s downhill, so big deal, right? Ha!). Up on the summit, hopefully you’ve found your way to the path around the radio antennas down to the flat rock (with so much graffiti, bummer) and a view of two or three states in the near distance. This is the best part. I took my hammock out of my pack and hung the straps on a nearby tree, gave my dog some much needed and well earned water and treats, and I laid about reflecting on a dream realized. I took pictures and had a twenty minute siesta and I just…was. It was perfect.
Run or hike to beautiful summit views on Currahee Mountain in North Georgia
Hike the Currahee Mountain trail, near Toccoa Falls, to beautiful summit views
What goes up must go down. After an hour on top of the rock, I started my return run amongst a mountain bike race, which was now underway. I very much enjoyed the downhill and made it to my car about 11 minutes faster than it took me going up. Back down to my car at the bottom, with the COL Robert Sink memorial plaque by the road, I did a final assessment of my day and felt something I don’t know how to describe. It wasn’t accomplishment, though I was glad to have done this Currahee run. It wasn’t pride, because I hadn’t been seeking that emotion. I guess the closest thing I can think of is a reverence I had for the men who trained here. Their sacrifices are not lost on me. My connection to the ghosts of these men was further hardened that day.
Hike or trail run the 3-mile Currahee Mountain Trail north of Atlanta
Things to know about hiking (or running) Currahee Mountain
Currahee is not hard to get to. Google Maps got me there easily.
Wear a hat. Although there are trees all over the mountain, the road is exposed and there is very little canopy cover as you make your way up. I’d also be sure to check the weather. You can actually drive right to the very top of the mountain along the narrow 1 and ½ car dirt road, but I wouldn’t want to be on the road after a big rain. The ground was soft in a lot of places, and as such, the road looks as if it has been re-graveled and rolled dozens of times. A week after my run I brought the family up via car for a picnic. Please clean up after yourselves.
Pack out everything you pack in, and please leave no trace. The mountain has suffered from years of graffiti and abuse: please don’t contribute to the problem. And, please consider helping with the Currahee Cleanup Project, a group that’s dedicated to restoring and conserving this important historic mountain.
There are many side trails all over the mountain rendering great views, and at least three spots for repelling and caving, I’m told. If you’re interested in Currahee for its place in military history, then I also highly suggest heading a few more minutes into the town of Toccoa after your sojourn on the mountain. There is a small, but very well maintained museum dedicated to Camp Toccoa and the Airborne soldiers who trained there.
GPS Coordinates: 34.529225 -83.375883
Hike or run the historic Currahee Mountain, the mountain of "Band of Brothers" fame near Toccoa Falls, to long-range summit views.
“Three Miles Up, Three Miles Down!” Not the most encouraging words you want to hear when you’re setting out on an outdoor adventure. Unless you’re a history nut like me.
In 2001, just after I enlisted in the army. I read Stephen Ambrose’s book, “Band of Brothers,” and immediately felt like I knew the men of Easy Company, 506th PIR personally. A few months later, all of our lives changed one September morning; I would end up at Fort Bragg, N.C. and earned the Airborne tab on my shoulder. Though not a Screaming Eagle of the 506th, my connection to the men in the book, for various reasons, some obvious, was growing stronger. When HBO released “Band of Brothers,” the miniseries, I felt a pull to run Currahee Mountain. The same mountain braver men than me ran several times a week at Camp Toccoa between 1942 and 1944. Men who were attending Army Airborne training during WWII. Men who would put their lives on pause for our country. Some men – many in fact – who would never again see the country they would go to war defending.
Run or hike the historic Currahee Mountain Trail in north Georgia
Currahee Mountain sits at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northeast, GA and its name, “Currahee,” meaning, “stand alone,” in Cherokee, became part of the motto of the 506th: “Stand alone… together.” A motto that meant so much to men that would easily find themselves alone, or in small groups, far behind enemy lines.
I thought of these soldiers way back in 2001 and 2002. And again, they were in my thoughts as I parked at the bottom of Currahee Mountain and assessed the challenge in front of me. There was no time limit and no reason to run up Currahee, save for honoring the memory of the men who gave so much so I could decide, if I felt like it, to run or walk, in their footsteps. But off I went…
Hike Curahee Mountain, featured in 'Band of Brothers', in the Blue Ridge Mountains
In the year that my family has been in the Atlanta area we have tried to do all the things that continue to drive our interests – explore, explore, explore. We have annual passes to Stone Mountain Park and have hiked some trails and seen some waterfalls, but every time we’ve planned a day trip with the family I kept regretting I wasn’t running Currahee. So, on a recent Saturday with the wife and kids away, I woke up way too early and drove northeast and hour and a half with a big smile on my face. I was going to run Currahee Mountain.
Run the steps of the Easy Company at Currahee Mountain in Georgia
Now, if you’re interested in running, walking, biking, or skipping up the mountain, I’m happy to provide a few pointers. First, be well hydrated. If you can, bring water, because there are no water stops along the way or at the top. You will need water.
Second, don’t be afraid of the mountain. Yes, it’s roughly three miles up, gradually ascending for much of the run, before a sharp increase at a switchback near the top that brought me from a slow jog to a slow walk. There’s no shame in taking your time, because unlike the men of Easy Co, there is no CPT Sobel barking at you to pick up the pace. In fact, if you’re lucky enough to go on a day where the sun is out and the clouds are minimal, the view is well worth enjoying at every step. For me, I had it in my mind to take in the view after I reached the top. My mind’s motor was working through thoughts of the men who’s iron will was forged on this same mountain road 70-some years ago. I thought about my grandfather who was in WWII at Normandy and Bastogne, my six years in the Army, my brother who still serves, and the millions of Americans who have taken the oath.
Running Currahee Mountain in Georgia: three miles up, three miles down
Back to my adventure of this sliver of the Blue Ridge. Obviously the best part is the feeling you have once you reach the top, around 1700 feet above sea level (Yes, you may feel as great as I did once I made it back to my car, but that’s downhill, so big deal, right? Ha!). Up on the summit, hopefully you’ve found your way to the path around the radio antennas down to the flat rock (with so much graffiti, bummer) and a view of two or three states in the near distance. This is the best part. I took my hammock out of my pack and hung the straps on a nearby tree, gave my dog some much needed and well earned water and treats, and I laid about reflecting on a dream realized. I took pictures and had a twenty minute siesta and I just…was. It was perfect.
Run or hike to beautiful summit views on Currahee Mountain in North Georgia
Hike the Currahee Mountain trail, near Toccoa Falls, to beautiful summit views
What goes up must go down. After an hour on top of the rock, I started my return run amongst a mountain bike race, which was now underway. I very much enjoyed the downhill and made it to my car about 11 minutes faster than it took me going up. Back down to my car at the bottom, with the COL Robert Sink memorial plaque by the road, I did a final assessment of my day and felt something I don’t know how to describe. It wasn’t accomplishment, though I was glad to have done this Currahee run. It wasn’t pride, because I hadn’t been seeking that emotion. I guess the closest thing I can think of is a reverence I had for the men who trained here. Their sacrifices are not lost on me. My connection to the ghosts of these men was further hardened that day.
Hike or trail run the 3-mile Currahee Mountain Trail north of Atlanta
Things to know about hiking (or running) Currahee Mountain
Currahee is not hard to get to. Google Maps got me there easily.
Wear a hat. Although there are trees all over the mountain, the road is exposed and there is very little canopy cover as you make your way up. I’d also be sure to check the weather. You can actually drive right to the very top of the mountain along the narrow 1 and ½ car dirt road, but I wouldn’t want to be on the road after a big rain. The ground was soft in a lot of places, and as such, the road looks as if it has been re-graveled and rolled dozens of times. A week after my run I brought the family up via car for a picnic. Please clean up after yourselves.
Pack out everything you pack in, and please leave no trace. The mountain has suffered from years of graffiti and abuse: please don’t contribute to the problem. And, please consider helping with the Currahee Cleanup Project, a group that’s dedicated to restoring and conserving this important historic mountain.
There are many side trails all over the mountain rendering great views, and at least three spots for repelling and caving, I’m told. If you’re interested in Currahee for its place in military history, then I also highly suggest heading a few more minutes into the town of Toccoa after your sojourn on the mountain. There is a small, but very well maintained museum dedicated to Camp Toccoa and the Airborne soldiers who trained there.
GPS Coordinates: 34.529225 -83.375883
15. Return to Amicolola Falls
Now we have basically reached the end of the trail. One can strike out and head home, explore around for other hidden gems, or complete the loop, (remember this is suppose to be a loop). To complete the loop and get back to Amicalola Falls is a trip of 65 miles and about 1 1/2 hours.
The Directions to do this is:
And that is it.
This post will change in the future since I have did the so called arm-chair exploring and will actually do the loop in the near future so I will make adjustments and correct any discrepancies.
Table of GPS Coordinates
Keep an eye out because I have the data for a North Alabama Waterfall Trails Loop.
Now we have basically reached the end of the trail. One can strike out and head home, explore around for other hidden gems, or complete the loop, (remember this is suppose to be a loop). To complete the loop and get back to Amicalola Falls is a trip of 65 miles and about 1 1/2 hours.
The Directions to do this is:
Currahee Mountain Road
Toccoa, GA 30577
Take Currahee Mountain Rd and W Currahee St to GA-365 S in Habersham County
22 min (6.9 mi)
Continue on GA-365 S. Take GA-105 N, GA-115 S, Town Creek Rd and GA-52 W to Amicalola Falls State Park Rd in Dawson County
1 h 16 min (57.4 mi)
Follow Amicalola Falls State Park Rd and Top of the Falls Rd to your destination
4 min (0.7 mi)
Mount Laurel Loop
Dawsonville, GA 30534
And that is it.
This post will change in the future since I have did the so called arm-chair exploring and will actually do the loop in the near future so I will make adjustments and correct any discrepancies.
Table of GPS Coordinates
| Stops | GPS Lat. | GPS Long |
| Amicalola Falls | 34.562652 | -84.247627 |
| DeSoto Falls | 34.706596 | -83.915254 |
| Helton Creek Falls | 34.753167 | -83.894253 |
| Duke Creek | 34.702063 | -83.789413 |
| Raven Cliff | 34.709969 | -83.788837 |
| Anna Ruby Falls | 34.757967 | -83.710150 |
| Panther Falls Angel Falls | 34.760747 | -83.472222 |
| Ammons Falls Holcomb Creek Falls | 34.983433 | -83.266835 |
| Tallulah Falls | 34.740217 | -83.390500 |
| Minnehaha Falls | 34.749633 | -83.479083 |
| Toccoa Falls | 34.596111 | -83.360000 |
| Currahee Mountain | 34.529225 | -83.375883 |
Keep an eye out because I have the data for a North Alabama Waterfall Trails Loop.
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