13 Amazing Helen, Georgia Waterfalls to Visit
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If you’re eager to witness the beauty of waterfalls, you’ve arrived at the perfect destination – Helen, Georgia is encircled by these natural wonders! Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes as you explore the enchanting trails leading to these cascades, creating a truly immersive experience that showcases the beauty of the region.
This guide offers a curated selection of amazing Helen, Georgia waterfalls, as well as some waterfalls near Helen. I’ll provide you with the essential information you need to embark on unforgettable journeys to these mesmerizing cascades.
Helen, Georgia Waterfalls
Anna Ruby Falls
Distance from Helen: 16 minutes
Trail length: 0.9 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: $5 per person 16 and older
Anna Ruby Falls is a captivating gem nestled close to Sautee Nacoochee. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Helen. The short, paved trail to the falls is an easy 0.9-mile round trip, making it accessible for all ages. As you venture along the trail, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, immersing you in nature!
At the end of the trail, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of Anna Ruby Falls, where two separate streams, Curtis Creek and York Creek, converge to create a double waterfall that plunges over 150 feet. The observation deck offers an unobstructed view, allowing you to marvel at the sheer beauty and power of this natural wonder.
This popular trail is open 7 days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Dukes Creek Falls
Distance from Helen: 10 minutes
Trail length: 2 miles
Trail difficulty: Moderate
Cost: Parking is $4
Dukes Creek Falls is a relatively short hike with a moderate elevation gain making it a popular Helen trail! The trail winds through a picturesque forested landscape. As you make your way along the path, the anticipation builds, and you’re rewarded with the breathtaking sight of Dukes Creek Falls.
This majestic Helen, Georgia waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff face, creating a serene oasis amidst the woods. The falls themselves are about 150 feet tall, making them a sight to behold. The observation deck allows you to take in the full splendor of the falls and capture the perfect photo to remember the experience.
Horse Trough Falls
Distance from Helen: 15 minutes
Trail length: 1 mile
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: Parking is $2
Horse Trough Falls offers a serene escape into the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The trail is easy and generally takes around 25 minutes to complete making it a popular trail for hikers of all ages.
Once you arrive at Horse Trough Falls, a stunning waterfall will greet you, tumbling down over the rocks and creating the most picturesque and breathtaking scene! The falls, although smaller in size compared to others in the area, captivate with their charming and natural beauty.
The campground and the road leading here close seasonally during the wintertime.
Related read: Check out these Helen, Georgia attractions
Raven Cliff Falls
Distance from Helen: 12 minutes
Trail length: 4.9 miles
Trail difficulty: Moderate
Cost: Parking is $5 cash only
Raven Cliff Falls is a moderate well-maintained trail that winds through the woods and along a cascading stream. The anticipation builds as you make your way to Raven Cliff Falls, and the reward is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The falls cascade down a rocky cliff, plunging about 40 feet into a serene pool below. The sight of the falls is truly breathtaking, and the viewing platform provides an excellent vantage point to soak in the natural beauty. The trail follows Dodd Creek over roots and rocks. The trail offers stunning views and shaded areas.
This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime, although check for road closings in the winter.
The parking lot fills up fast, so it’s best to arrive early.
Waterfalls Near Helen, GA (About 30 Minutes Drive)
High Shoals & Blue Hole Falls
Distance from Helen: 26 minutes
Trail length: 2.6 miles
Trail difficulty: Moderate
Cost: Free
High Shoals Falls offers a captivating natural spectacle that’s worth the journey. As you make your way through the woods, you’ll be treated to the tranquil sounds of the creek and the occasional glimpse of vibrant wildflowers (depending on the season). The deeper you get into the woods the more rugged the trail becomes.
The falls themselves are a sight to behold, with water cascading down in a series of picturesque tiers. The main falls plunge about 80 feet into a pool below!
If you continue on past High Shoals Falls a little you will stumble on a lesser-known waterfall, Blue Hole Falls! If you’re looking for a more secluded experience this is worth the trip.
Desoto Falls
Distance from Helen: 29 minutes
Trail length: 1.9 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Desoto Falls has options for shorter and longer routes. The Upper Falls Trail is around 2 miles round trip, while the Lower Falls Trail is about 3 miles round trip.
Regardless of the trail you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the falls. The Upper Falls cascades down a rocky ledge, creating a striking visual that’s enhanced by the surrounding forest.
The Lower Falls, on the other hand, offers a more expansive view, with water rushing over the rocks in a captivating display of nature’s power.
If there hasn’t been a lot of recent rainfall, you may want to enjoy a different Helen waterfall.
Dick’s Creek Falls
Distance from Helen: 32 minutes
Trail length: 1.2 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: Free
Dick’s Creek Falls is a hidden gem nestled within the Chattahoochee National Forest. The trail to the falls is relatively short, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.
As you go through the woods, the anticipation builds, and the sight that greets you is nothing short of magical. The falls tumble down in tiers, creating a picturesque scene that’s ideal for photos and relaxation.
Pack your bathing suit for this waterfall! The pool below the falls offers a peaceful setting to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. This Helen waterfall really is a hidden gem, and some struggle to find the trailhead. Be sure to download the map on Alltrails before going.
Hemlock Falls
Distance from Helen: 32 minutes
Trail length: 1.9 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: $5 per vehicle parking fee
Hemlock Falls is located in Moccasin State Park. To get to this Helen waterfall you’ll traverse through lush forests and cross picturesque streams.
There are a few smaller waterfalls you’ll pass on your journey to Hemlock Falls, and you’ll even cross a bridge over one!
You should bring bug spray on any of these hikes, but especially for this one be sure to pack some!
Waterfalls Near Helen, GA (35-45 Minute Drive)
Trahlyta Falls
Distance from Helen: 41 minutes
Trail length: 1.1 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: $5 parking fee per vehicle
Trahlyta Falls at Vogel State Park is another perfect waterfall for nature enthusiasts. The trail to the falls is paved and relatively short taking around 25 minutes to complete. This is perfect for families and hikers of all levels.
Unlike most of the other trails, the Lake Trahlyta Trail is a loop trail. The falls themselves consist of a series of cascades that flow gracefully over the rocks. The falls are named after the Cherokee princess Trahlyta, adding a touch of local history to the natural beauty.
The trail is open year-round, but is especially a sight to see in the fall!
Helton Creek Falls
Distance from Helen: 35 minutes
Trail length: 0.3 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: Free
Helton Creek Falls is a hidden gem nestled within the Chattahoochee National Forest. The short hike leads you to a double waterfall, where two streams converge and cascade down the rocks.
The sight of the water flowing amidst the vibrant foliage is truly captivating! Because of how easy the trek is, this is a heavily trafficked waterfall near Helen, GA. Be sure to go early if possible.
While the trail is short, there are some steep areas to watch out for. If you want to take a dip, this waterfall does have a swimming hole so bring your suit!
Panther Falls and Angel Falls
Distance from Helen: 37 minutes
Trail length: 2.3 miles
Trail difficulty: Moderate
Cost: Free. If you can’t find free parking at the trailhead you can pay $5 to park inside of the campground.
On your hike, you will first encounter three waterfalls. The first one I don’t believe has a name, the second being Panther Falls (about 0.5 miles in). The third and final waterfall is Angel Falls.
The trail is well-maintained and includes multiple bridge crossings and streams. This is the third longest hike on the list but includes multiple waterfalls and takes just over an hour to complete.
Minnehaha Falls
Distance from Helen: 40 minutes
Trail length: 0.4 miles
Trail difficulty: Easy
Cost: Free
Minnehaha Falls is a hidden treasure tucked away in the woods of North Georgia. The area around Minnehaha Falls is adorned with lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, adding to the picturesque setting.
You will have to walk over quite a few tree roots and planks, but the stunning falls at the end are worth the small obstacles.
The accessibility and natural beauty of Minnehaha Falls make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to experience the tranquility of the outdoors.
Because of the limited parking and the popularity of this waterfall near Helen, be sure to arrive early!
Which Helen, Georgia Waterfall Are You Visiting First?!
Helen, Georgia, truly is a haven for waterfall lovers! It offers such a diverse range of cascades to explore. From the accessible beauty of High Shoals to the tranquility of Helton Creek Falls, these natural wonders provide a refreshing escape into nature’s beauty.
Before you go be sure to check out my other posts from our 2-week Southeast USA road trip:
