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Epic Waterfalls Near Helen, GA: 15 Hikes Worth the Drive

ByMorgan Middleton

Helen, Georgia isn’t just a cute Bavarian-style town. It’s also a great base for exploring some of the most beautiful and easy-to-reach waterfalls in North Georgia. If you’re looking to spend a weekend outdoors without committing to intense hiking, this list is for you.

We’re not serious hikers… just casual adventurers who enjoy a good trail with a great payoff. These are the waterfalls we’ve personally visited that offer scenic views with minimal effort, perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to enjoy the outdoors without overdoing it.

In this post, we’re sharing 14 waterfalls near Helen that are ideal for a relaxing day trip. We’ll tell you which ones are best after rain, which trails are truly easy, and the quiet spots that are worth going a little out of your way to find.

Frozen cascades at Anna Ruby Falls in North Georgia, with ice clinging to the rocks and trees around the double waterfall. A wooden viewing platform stands in the foreground, making this a scenic and accessible stop for winter hikes and things to do in North Georgia.

Quick Picks: Best Waterfalls Near Helen, GA

Not sure where to start? These four waterfalls stand out based on different travel styles and how people actually explore the Helen area:

  • Must-See for First-Time Visitors: Anna Ruby Falls
    A paved, beginner-friendly trail with a huge scenic payoff. This is one of the most accessible and impressive waterfalls near Helen.
  • Most Scenic Day Trip: Tallulah Gorge State Park
    Located a bit outside of Helen, this park offers dramatic gorge views, multiple waterfalls, over 300 stairs, and a suspension bridge that makes the effort worth it.
  • Best Hidden Gem: Water’s Creek Falls aka Dicks Creek Falls
    Quiet, easy to access, and often overlooked. This is a great option if you want something peaceful without crowds.
  • Perfect for Casual Hikers: Helton Creek Falls
    A short trail leading to a two-tier waterfall that looks especially good after rain and does not require much effort. The best part – it is FREE!

Our Favorite Waterfalls Within 1 Hour of Helen

Don’t go chasing waterfalls…. Wait. No, that’s not right. Do go chasing waterfalls!

Grab your hiking gear and a friend or two and go explore these trails that lead to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Georgia.

1. Anna Ruby Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Paved trail, 0.8 miles round trip
  • Fee: $5 per person 16 and older; FREE for children
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: First-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting a scenic, low-effort hike

Why we recommend it:
Anna Ruby Falls is one of the most popular and well-maintained waterfall trails in North Georgia. We’ve visited this one multiple times and it remains one of our favorite short hikes in the region.

The paved path winds through a peaceful forest alongside a rushing creek, making it a beautiful walk from start to finish. At the end, you’ll reach a large viewing deck facing two dramatic waterfalls that pour down the mountain.

A bright winter view of Anna Ruby Falls shows twin streams of water cascading down a rocky cliff into a rushing creek, framed by evergreen and leafless trees under a clear blue sky. A wooden observation deck on the left provides visitors a closer look at the scenic waterfalls.
A man in a dark long-sleeve shirt, jeans, and a baseball cap leans against a wooden railing on a viewing platform above a rocky creek, surrounded by dense forest near Anna Ruby Falls. Bare trees and evergreen shrubs line the stream in a peaceful late autumn setting.
A natural view of Anna Ruby Falls shows twin waterfalls flowing down dark, rocky cliffs surrounded by dense forest and moss-covered boulders. The cascading water creates small streams and pools as it moves over layered rocks in a peaceful woodland setting.

If you’re new to the area or short on time, this is one of the best ways to experience North Georgia’s waterfall scenery without much effort.

Related: Our full guide to Anna Ruby Falls

2. Dukes Creek Falls

Dukes Creek Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, 2 miles round trip
  • Fee: $4 per vehicle
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: Families and casual hikers looking for a rewarding mid-length hike

Why we recommend it:
Dukes Creek Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes near Helen, and for good reason. The trail gradually descends through a shaded forest with a few mountain views before ending at a large viewing platform.

From there, you’ll see a dramatic multi-tiered waterfall pouring into Dukes Creek below. We did this one early in our hiking days and it struck a perfect balance between being easy to follow and feeling like a real adventure.

3. Raven Cliff Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, 5 miles round trip
  • Fee: $5 parking fee
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: Hikers looking for a scenic, moderate challenge with a unique waterfall at the end
Raven Cliff Falls

Why we recommend it:
Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most rewarding hikes near Helen if you’re up for a bit more distance. The trail follows a creek through a beautiful forest, with several small bridges and quiet photo-worthy spots along the way.

At the end, you’ll find one of the most unusual waterfalls in North Georgia. The water spills through a narrow split in a rock wall, and it’s just as dramatic in person as it sounds.

We hiked this one in early spring and appreciated how peaceful the trail felt even on a weekend. It can get muddy in spots, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.

4. High Shoals Falls & Blue Hole Falls

Blue Hole & High Shoals Falls Trailhead marker

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, about 2.6 miles round trip
  • Fee: FREE
  • Dog-friendly: Yes; mostly on leash but there are a few off leash areas
  • Best for: Scenic photo spots and a peaceful trail with two waterfalls

Why we recommend it:
This is one of our favorite two-for-one hikes near Helen. The trail winds through a quiet forest with just enough elevation change to feel like an adventure, but without being too challenging.

Blue Hole Falls comes first, dropping into a crystal-clear pool. A little farther along, you’ll reach High Shoals Falls, which is taller and more dramatic.

The forest stays cool and shaded even in summer, and the trail tends to be less crowded than others in the area. It’s a great pick if you want a scenic hike with variety and fewer people.

5. Horse Trough Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, 0.4 miles round trip
  • Fee: $2 per vehicle
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A peaceful, short walk to a quiet waterfall

Why we recommend it:
If you’re looking for a short and quiet waterfall hike, Horse Trough Falls is a great option. The trail is tucked away near a campground in the Chattahoochee National Forest and follows a flat path along the creek to a gentle, tall waterfall spilling down a rock face.

Cascading waterfall flowing down layered rock surrounded by lush green forest near Helen, Georgia. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy above, creating a peaceful, secluded atmosphere typical of Horse Trough Falls.

We visited this one mid-week and had it entirely to ourselves. While it’s not the most dramatic fall in the region, it’s peaceful and great for a low-effort nature break.

Do note that the forest service road leading in may close during winter, and AWD or 4WD is recommended if conditions are wet or icy.

6. Helton Creek Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Dirt trail, about 0.6 miles round trip
  • Fee: FREE
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: Families, casual hikers, and anyone wanting to wade in the water

Why we recommend it:
Helton Creek Falls is an easy trail with a big reward.

The short walk leads to a peaceful two-tiered waterfall with a shallow pool at the base that’s perfect for wading on warm days. The trail is mostly flat but can get muddy and slippery, especially after rain.

We’ve seen everything from toddlers to older adults enjoying this one, and it’s a great spot to cool off in the summer. If you’re looking for a laid-back stop that feels a little off the beaten path, this is a solid pick.

7. Water’s Creek Falls aka Dick’s Creek Falls

Water's Creek Falls DIck's Creek Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Short walk from the road
  • Fee: FREE
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A quick, quiet stop or scenic detour between hikes

Why we recommend it:
Water’s Creek Falls is one of the most overlooked waterfalls near Helen, which is exactly why we like it. The falls are located right off the road, with a short and easy path leading to a series of small but scenic cascades.

We usually stop here when heading to other trailheads in the area. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and enjoy the sound of rushing water without committing to a full hike.

On weekday mornings, it often feels like you have the place to yourself.

8. DeSoto Falls

DeSoto Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trails, 2 miles round trip (Upper and Lower Falls)
  • Fee: $5 parking fee
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: Hikers who want multiple waterfall views without a long hike

Why we recommend it:
DeSoto Falls offers two scenic waterfalls on a well-marked trail that’s easy to follow and great for casual hikers.

You can visit both the Upper and Lower falls in a single outing, with each section of the trail offering its own vibe and photo ops. The path follows the creek and stays shaded, which makes it comfortable for most of the year.

We found the Upper Falls to be especially beautiful after rain. This is a solid choice if you want to get multiple waterfall views without committing to a strenuous hike.

9. Hemlock Falls

Hemlock Falls Trail marker - engraved rock

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, 2 miles round trip
  • Fee: $5 per vehicle (or annual pass) required for parking
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A relaxed half-day hike with a peaceful setting

Why we recommend it:
Hemlock Falls feels like a hidden spot even though it’s fairly easy to reach.

The trail follows Moccasin Creek through a quiet section of the forest and ends at a beautiful waterfall that spills into a shallow pool. The path is well maintained and not too steep, which makes it a great choice if you’re looking for something low-key but still scenic.

We hiked this one on a spring weekend morning and had the trail mostly to ourselves, which made it feel even more special.

10. Trahlyta Falls at Vogel State Park

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Loop trail, about 1 mile round trip
  • Fee: $5 Georgia State Parks parking fee
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A quick and scenic stop with easy access and a photo-worthy waterfall
Trahlyta Falls

Why we recommend it:
Trahlyta Falls is one of the easiest and most accessible waterfalls near Helen. Located within Vogel State Park, the trail circles Lake Trahlyta before reaching a wooden viewing platform that overlooks the falls.

It’s not a remote hike, but it is a great stop if you’re exploring the park or looking for a low-effort walk with a nice payoff.

We visited in the fall and loved how the colors reflected off the lake. It’s also an easy one to combine with a picnic or a drive through the mountains.

11. Minnehaha Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, about 0.4 miles round trip
  • Fee: FREE
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A short, scenic hike to one of the prettiest waterfalls in North Georgia
Minnehaha Falls trailhead marker

Why we recommend it:
Minnehaha Falls feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s relatively easy to access.

The short trail climbs gently through the woods before reaching a stunning multi-tiered waterfall that fans out across a rock wall.

It’s one of the most photogenic spots on this list and well worth the drive if you’re chasing beautiful views without a long hike.

We went in early spring after some rain and the flow was incredible. It’s a peaceful spot that feels tucked away, especially on weekdays.

12. Angel Falls & Panther Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Out-and-back trail, about 1.7 miles round trip
  • Fee: $5 Georgia State Parks parking fee; we have heard reports of some free parking along the side of the road but have not experienced this personally
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A less crowded double waterfall hike with forest and creek views
Panther Falls

Why we recommend it:
This trail gives you two waterfalls on a moderate hike that doesn’t see as much traffic as others in the area.

It follows Joe Creek through a shaded forest, first leading to Panther Falls, a wide cascade that flows over rocky ledges. From there, the trail continues uphill to Angel Falls, which is taller and more dramatic.

We appreciated how peaceful this one felt and liked that it was scenic without being overly developed. It’s a great choice if you’re exploring the Lake Rabun area or want something that feels a bit off the beaten path.

13. Toccoa Falls & Little Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Paved walkway, less than 0.5 miles round trip
  • Fee: average of $2 per person (varies based on age and group size)
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A quick, paved stop with a stunningly tall waterfall

Why we recommend it:
Toccoa Falls is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi at 186 feet, and it’s incredibly easy to access. Located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College, it’s a short, flat walk from the visitor center and makes for a great stop if you’re passing through the area.

Little Falls at the top of Toccoa Falls
Little Falls at the top of Toccoa Falls

We recommend pairing this visit with a walk to nearby Little Falls if you have extra time. It’s a peaceful spot, and the towering drop of Toccoa Falls is a surprising sight given how easy it is to reach.

14. Bonus: Amicalola Falls

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Multiple options; about 1 mile round trip on the main stairs
  • Fee: $5 Georgia State Parks parking fee
  • Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best for: A dramatic day trip with Georgia’s tallest waterfall and a mix of hiking options
Amicalola Falls

Why we recommend it:
Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia at over 700 feet, and it’s a popular stop for good reason.

You can view it from several points along the stairs or opt for longer hiking trails around the park. The base of the falls is accessible with a short walk, but if you’re up for a challenge, climbing the 600+ stairs to the top offers incredible views.

This one is about an hour from Helen, so it’s best as a day trip or part of a longer drive through North Georgia.

We’ve visited a few times and always recommend it to friends who want something epic without a long backcountry hike.

15. Bonus: Tallulah Gorge State Park

Quick Info:

  • Trail type & length: Multiple options; about 2.5 miles round trip to the suspension bridge
  • Fee: $5 Georgia State Parks parking fee
  • Dog-friendly: Not allowed on the gorge floor or suspension bridge trail
  • Best for: Adventurous hikers looking for epic views, waterfalls, and stair workouts

Why we recommend it:
Tallulah Gorge State Park offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in North Georgia. The main hike takes you down 300+ steps into the gorge and across a suspension bridge that sways 80 feet above the river, with a river cascading below.

A person in a red jacket walks across the Tallulah Gorge suspension bridge, surrounded by dense forest and towering evergreens. The wooden planks and sturdy cables of the bridge create a dramatic perspective leading into the misty, tree-covered cliffs beyond.

While the hike isn’t long, climbing back up the 300+ stairs make it a moderate challenge. We’ve hiked this one more than once and always walk away feeling like we earned the views.

A man in a red hoodie stands on a wooden landing partway down the metal-grated stairs leading to the Tallulah Gorge suspension bridge. The bridge stretches over a rushing river below, framed by steep rocky cliffs and dense, leafless forest.

For those who want even more adventure, permits are available to hike to the gorge floor or experience the Sliding Rock when conditions allow. This is a great bonus stop if you’re up for a more strenuous hike with big payoff.

Related: Our full guide to Tallulah Gorge’s suspension bridge hike

Hike Safety and Best Practices

Be cautious. Let someone know where you are going and when you should be back. Accidents can happen so it is always better for a friend or loved on to know your location.

Pay attention to posted signs and warnings. They are there for a reason.

Leave no trace. If you pack it in, pack it out. Keep our trails nice for the next visitor.

Bring the right gear. Research your hike location ahead of time. Know the conditions and terrain. Wear sturdy shoes like Morgan’s Oboz. Bring water and snacks or meals if appropriate. We recommend a Camelbak to make things easy and keep your hands free.

Which Waterfall Near Helen Will You Explore First?

From peaceful forest strolls to short hikes with big scenic payoffs, these North Georgia waterfalls offer something for every kind of adventurer. We’ve hiked each one ourselves and can honestly say they’re all worth the visit for different reasons. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, cooling off on a summer day, or just looking to get outside without a long drive, there’s a spot on this list that fits.

Planning a full weekend in the area? Be sure to check out other things to do near Helen to make the most of your time in the mountains.

Morgan is the author behind Middletons on the Move, where she shares practical RV travel tips, campground reviews, and real-world advice for life on the road. She and her husband travel full-time in a 44' fifth wheel with their dog, Coco, and have camped in everything from pop-up to a 31' Class C. With a planner’s mindset and a love for exploring, Morgan helps fellow RVers hit the road with confidence and curiosity.