8 short drives to see north Georgia's changing leaves, waterfalls and great hikes

Looking for a North Georgia Mountain adventure? Prepare for a splash! With over 100 stunning waterfalls scattered throughout the region, here are eight must-visit waterfalls that promise breathtaking views, according to appalachian-realty.com.

Amicalola Falls

Standing at 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is Georgia's highest waterfall and a must-see. It is located in Springer Mountain and it is $5 dollar parking per car.

People have the option to either hike one mile up wooden stairs or have a leisure 0.3-mile walk to the observation deck.

Anna Ruby Falls

Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, this trail offers views of the creek and vibrant foliage on the way.

Perfect for a quick hike, Anna Ruby Falls features two waterfalls—one at 153 feet and the other at 50 feet. Parking is $3 per car.

DeSoto Falls

Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this 45-foot tall waterfall is split in upper and lower sections. The hike to DeSoto Falls has plenty of scenic spots to rest and take in the sounds of nature.

Parking is $3 per car and the distance is 2.2 miles.

Dukes Creek Falls

Located in Mount Yonah, Dukes Creek Falls is super relaxing with wide paths that are easy to navigate. It is a 4-mile round trip and after crossing the wooden boardwalk, the 150-foot fall waterfall awaits.

Parking is $4 per car.

Fall Branch Falls

Located in Blue Ridge Mountain, this trail is super popular because it is short and family-friendly. Parking is also free.

After a quick 0.4 mile walk, there is a 10-foot tall waterfall, which is just a teaser for the 60-foot tall Minnehaha Falls just 0.2 miles further.

Raven Cliff Falls

Raven Cliff Falls near Helen, Ga.
Raven Cliff Falls near Helen, Ga.

Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this hike offers views of several smaller waterfalls along the way and parking is also free.

When the trail ends, Raven Cliff Falls awaits. People have the option to take a steep incline up or stay put at the lower falls.

Tallulah Georgia Hurricane Falls

This hike crosses a swing bridge over the Tallulah River, surrounded by 1,000 foot walls of Tallulah Gorge.

This state park is a perfect day trip from a cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This area is home to six separate waterfalls:

  • l’Eau d’Or

  • Tempesta

  • Hurricane

  • Oceana

  • Bridal Veil

  • Lovers Leap

Permits are limited to 100 per day and parking is $5 per car.

Hurricane Falls offer one of the most spectacular experiences. You’ll cross a swing bridge over the Tallulah River, surrounded by the 1,000-foot walls of Tallulah Gorge. Permits are limited to 100 per day, so you’ll want to arrive early for this unforgettable adventure.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Eight north Georgia scenic trails in the mountains