Stretch your legs and explore some of North Georgia’s breathtaking waterfalls with your furry best friend. These dog-friendly trails are perfect for adventure-loving pups and their humans.
Pet safety is always a top priority when hitting the trails with your pup. Make sure they are up-to-date on all vaccinations, have their identification tags on, and are leashed at all times. There are also areas along the trail where dogs are not allowed due to steep drop-offs or dangerous terrain. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your pup’s behavior.
Amicalola Falls Trail in Amicalola Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly trail with stunning waterfalls, check out the Amicalola Falls Trail! This gem of a hike boasts one of the highest waterfalls in Georgia and is perfect for adventure-seeking pup parents. The trail difficulty ranges from moderate to strenuous, so be sure you’re up to the challenge and bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your furry friend.
This trail has about 600 metal steps, so either carry your dog or put on booties. There are other trails in the park that don’t have the steps if that is more your speed.
Category
Feature
Distance
3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty
Moderate
Features
Waterfall, cabins, camping, picnic areas
Dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash
Parking fee
yes
The Appalachian Trail officially starts here. Amicalola Falls Trail is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and features a stunning 729-foot waterfall, making it the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. There are plenty of opportunities for panoramic views and photo ops so don’t forget your camera. I find the best time to go is during fall when the leaves are changing color or in the winter when your view isn’t obstructed.
As you make your way up the 600+ stairs to the top of Amicalola Falls, take a moment to soak in the beauty of nature surrounding you. You’ll see lush forests, babbling creeks, and maybe even some wildlife along the way. Once you reach the top, be prepared for breathtaking views that will leave you feeling accomplished and rejuvenated.
You’ll love exploring Panther Creek Falls Trail – it’s a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts! This is a hidden gem that features multiple cascading falls that lead down to a serene swimming hole for after the long hike.
There is a spot that you will have to do some climbing, so be aware that your pup may need some assistance. When Sam and I went, we went with a group so that helped both of us get up there. I’m just short and need assistance from time to time.
As you hike through the lush forest, the sound of rushing water becomes louder and louder until you reach one of Georgia’s most stunning waterfalls. The 3.5-mile trail is moderately difficult, but well worth the effort. Plus, your furry friend will love splashing around in the swimming spots along the way.
There are also areas to camp along the way or at the end of the trail.
Category
Feature
Distance
7.4 miles round trip
Difficulty
Moderate
Features
Waterfalls, swimming spots, picnic areas
Dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash
Parking fee
None
As you make your way down to Panther Creek Falls, take some time to explore the surrounding area. There are plenty of picnic areas where you can stop and enjoy a meal with your pup by your side. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in one of the refreshing swimming spots!
Get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of Raven Cliff Falls Trail, a must-see destination for any nature lover. This trail is located in White County and boasts one of the most stunning waterfalls in Georgia. The trail stretches for about 5 miles round trip and offers a moderate hike that will challenge both you and your furry friend.
This trail to me is one of the easiest but still beautiful. At the beginning of the trail, there are plenty of areas to setup camp for a few days.
Category
Feature
Distance
5 miles round trip
Difficulty
Moderate
Features
Waterfalls, primitive camping, picnic areas
Dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash
Parking fee
Yes
The trail difficulty is rated moderate because it has some steep inclines and declines, but don’t let that discourage you from exploring this amazing natural wonder. Your four-legged companion will love the adventure as much as you do, especially when you reach the falls. There are several spots along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery.
The best times to visit Raven Cliff Falls Trail are during spring and fall when temperatures are mild, and foliage colors are at their peak. Summers are hot, so make sure to bring plenty of water for yourself and your dog. Winter can be chilly, but seeing the falls frozen over is truly magical.
Tallulah Gorge State Park has Beautiful Trails in Georgia
When heading to Tallulah Gorge State Park, be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the canyon. The park is home to several waterfalls, including Hurricane Falls and Oceana Falls, which are a must-see. Take your furry friend on a hike along the rim. There is another way down
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, cross the suspension bridge that spans 80 feet over the gorge’s floor. You’ll feel like you’re walking on air as you take in breathtaking views of the river below. Don’t worry; your furry companion can join you too! Just keep them leashed for their safety.
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beauty of Tallulah Gorge from several overlooks dotted throughout the park. Be sure to stop by Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center for more information about this natural wonder and its history.
Anna Ruby Falls Trail is a breathtaking hike that will leave you feeling like you’re walking through a fairytale forest. The trail is located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and offers an easy 0.4-mile walk to the base of two stunning waterfalls. As you start your adventure, make sure to grab your camera because this trail provides some of the best opportunities for nature photography.
Anna Ruby Falls is roughly 5.7 miles north of Helen, GA. As far as driving with no traffic it’s just 15 minutes away.
Category
Feature
Distance
0.9 round trip
Difficulty
Moderate
Features
Waterfalls, cabins, picnic areas
Dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash
Parking fee
Yes
To help you capture those picture-perfect moments, here are some photography tips: first, bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors; second, use a tripod to stabilize your camera for long exposures; third, shoot during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for soft lighting and warm tones. With these techniques, your pictures will be sure to amaze all your friends and family!
As always when hiking with pets, pet safety should always be a top priority. Keep them on a leash at all times and bring plenty of water for both yourself and your furry friend. This trail can get crowded during peak season so it’s essential to keep control of your dog while enjoying the scenery.
Overall, Anna Ruby Falls Trail is an incredible experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and alive! So grab Fido, pack up the camera gear and head out on this unforgettable adventure today!
Cloudland Canyon
I haven’t been here in a few years, but this is 100% a must see. There are lots of stairs that lead down to the falls, so be sure to bring your pup’s shoes.
There is another way to get there that bypasses the stairs. I’ll share that hidden secret at a later time.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve discovered some of the best dog-friendly trails with breathtaking waterfalls in Georgia. As you explore these stunning natural wonders, you’ll be immersed in a world of adventure and beauty that will leave you feeling alive and rejuvenated.
Imagine standing at the base of Amicalola Falls, feeling the cool mist on your face as your furry friend splashes around in the refreshing pool below. Or hiking along Panther Creek Falls Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and listening to the soothing sound of rushing water. And don’t forget about Raven Cliff Falls Trail, where you can marvel at the stunning 40-foot waterfall while your dog happily explores their surroundings.
As you make your way through Tallulah Gorge State Park or Anna Ruby Falls Trail, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world entirely. The beauty of nature is truly awe-inspiring, and there’s nothing quite like experiencing it with your loyal canine companion by your side.
So go ahead and hit the trails – adventure awaits! These dog-friendly hikes offer some of the most stunning scenery in all of Georgia. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or just a leisurely stroll with Fido, these trails are sure to satisfy any nature-loving adventurer. So pack up your pooch and get ready to make some unforgettable memories amidst Georgia’s stunning waterfalls.
Are you and your furry friend in need of some fresh air and outdoor adventure? Look no further than Georgia’s dog friendly hikes and trails with stunning views. From the iconic Stone Mountain Trail to the challenging Blood Mountain Loop, there are plenty of options for all levels of hikers.
Hit the Pine Mountain Trail for a peaceful stroll through hardwood forests and over babbling creeks. Or, take on the Arabia Mountain Trail for a unique hike across rocky outcrops with panoramic views of Atlanta’s skyline. And if you’re feeling up for a challenge, tackle the Springer Mountain Trail, which leads to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. No matter which trail you choose, you and your pup are sure to have an unforgettable adventure in Georgia’s great outdoors.
Things to Know Before Hitting Dog Friendly Hikes and Trails in Georgia
Dog-Friendly with Leash Restrictions
Restrictions on leashes may seem like a hindrance, but fear not – these hikes still offer plenty of adventure for you and your furry friend. In fact, dog-friendly trails with leash restrictions are becoming more common in Georgia due to the rise in popularity of hiking with dogs. Don’t let the restrictions deter you from exploring some of the most beautiful trails in Georgia.
To help you plan your next adventure, here is a table outlining some popular dog-friendly hikes with leash restrictions and their corresponding park options:
Trail Name
Park Options
Leash Restrictions
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
6-foot leash required
Arabia Mountain Top Trail
Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve
6-foot leash required
Vickery Creek Trail at Roswell Mill
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
6-foot leash required
To ensure that both you and your pup have an enjoyable experience, it’s important to practice proper leash training before hitting the trails. Start by using a well-fitted harness or collar and practice walking on-leash around distractions such as other people or dogs. Additionally, consider visiting a local dog park to improve socialization skills before venturing out onto the trail. With these tips and recommendations, you’re sure to have a safe and memorable hike with your furry best friend.
Now that we’ve covered some great dog-friendly hikes with leash restrictions, let’s move onto exploring accessible year-round options that are perfect for all seasons.
Accessible Year-Round
All-season accessibility makes these hiking destinations perfect for both sunny summer days and crisp autumn afternoons. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Georgia’s dog-friendly trails offer breathtaking views no matter the time of year. To make your experience even better, here are three packing essentials for year-round hikes:
Water and snacks – It’s important to stay hydrated and energized during your hike, so pack plenty of water and non-perishable snacks like trail mix or energy bars.
Appropriate footwear – Make sure to wear sturdy shoes with good traction to avoid slipping on slippery surfaces or uneven terrain.
Best gear – Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and a map or GPS device in case you get lost.
Additionally, if you plan on bringing your furry friend along for the hike, there are many dog-friendly accommodations available nearby such as pet-friendly cabins and campsites.
Accessible for All Skill Levels
Beginners and experienced hikers alike can enjoy the scenic beauty of Georgia’s trails, which offer a range of difficulty levels to suit any skill set. If you’re new to hiking or just looking for an easygoing trail, there are plenty of beginner-friendly options that will still provide stunning views and a sense of adventure. One great option is the Arabia Mountain Trail, located just outside Atlanta. This 2.4-mile loop is perfect for families with kids or anyone who wants to take it slow and soak in the surroundings.
But even if you’re sticking to well-marked paths, safety should always be your top priority when hiking with dogs. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, make sure your pup is properly leashed at all times and keep an eye out for potential hazards like steep drop-offs or slippery rocks. Additionally, be prepared with plenty of water (for both you and your furry friend) and have a plan in place in case someone gets injured or lost along the way.
Tails on Trails Club
Stone Mountain Trail
You’ll love hiking the Stone Mountain Trail with its stunning views and dog-friendly atmosphere. This trail is one of Georgia’s most popular hikes, and for good reason. The five-mile loop offers breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline, as well as historic landmarks such as the Confederate Memorial Carving.
If you’re looking for a place to stop and take in the scenery, there are several picnic spots along the way. These areas are perfect for enjoying a snack or lunch with your furry companion while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Just be sure to pack out all your trash!
As you make your way up the mountain, you’ll encounter some steep inclines, but it’s nothing too challenging. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. And don’t worry about getting lost – there are plenty of signs pointing you in the right direction.
In just a few hours, you can experience some of Georgia’s best views while spending quality time with your four-legged friend on this amazing hike.
Now let’s move on to our next adventure – Blood Mountain Loop!
Blood Mountain Loop
Are you ready for a challenging hike with stunning views? The Blood Mountain Loop offers just that, making it a must-visit destination for hikers in Georgia. While the trail is dog-friendly, make sure to keep your furry friend on a leash at all times. Plus, the best part about this hike is that it’s accessible year-round, so you can experience breathtaking scenery no matter what season it is. This is popular trail for fit hikers that take their dog.
Challenging Hike with Stunning Views
If you’re up for a tough trek, the Emery Creek Trail in Chattahoochee National Forest is like climbing a towering mountain of stairs, but the breathtaking views at the top are worth every step. This 8-mile hike boasts stunning waterfalls, creek crossings, and old-growth forests along the way. To tackle this challenging trail, make sure to have the best gear for hiking, such as sturdy boots with ankle support and plenty of water and snacks. Preparation tips for challenging hikes include checking weather conditions beforehand and letting someone know your hiking plans.
Finding the perfect hike companion can also make all the difference on a difficult hike like this one. Having someone to motivate you and share in the experience can make it more enjoyable. Once you reach the summit of Emery Creek Trail, take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy panoramic views of North Georgia’s rolling hillsides before transitioning into our next section about dog-friendly hikes with leash restrictions.
Now that you’re prepared with all the necessary gear and knowledge for an enjoyable hiking experience regardless of the season let’s explore Pine Mountain Trail!
Pine Mountain Trail
Explore the stunning Pine Mountain Trail and witness breathtaking views with your furry friend by your side. This trail, located in F.D. Roosevelt State Park, is perfect for those seeking an escape into nature. The 23-mile long trail is accessible year-round and offers a variety of terrains, including rocky ridges and gentle slopes.
It’s about a 1.5 hr drive from Downtown Atlanta, GA and is North of Columbus, GA. There is a $5 parking fee or you can get an annual Georgia State Park Pass for $50.
As you hike through this beautiful trail, keep an eye out for unique wildlife encounters such as deer, turkey, and even black bears! Camping options are also available if you want to extend your adventure overnight. You’ll be able to enjoy the serene stillness of the forest while snuggled up next to your furry companion.
To make planning easier, here’s a table that provides details on what you can expect during your visit:
Category
Description
Difficulty
Moderate
Length
23 miles
Time needed
2-3 days
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup. Also, be sure to pack enough gear to make camping comfortable.
Overall, if you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike that offers stunning views and unique wildlife encounters, Pine Mountain Trail should definitely be on your list. Next up on our list is the Arabia Mountain Trail – another must-see destination in Georgia where you can explore nature with man’s best friend by your side!
Arabia Mountain Trail
You’re going to love the Arabia Mountain Trail! This trail offers unique rock formations and scenic views that will take your breath away. Not only is it dog-friendly, but there are also leash restrictions in place to ensure the safety of all hikers and their furry friends. With its accessibility for all skill levels, you won’t want to miss out on this amazing hiking experience.
If you take your four legged friends during the late Spring to early Fall, bring booties for them to wear. You are walking on rock and it can burn their feet.
Unique Rock Formations and Scenic Views
Don’t miss out on the breathtaking views and unique rock formations along these dog-friendly hikes and trails in Georgia. These trails offer more than just a chance to exercise with your furry friend; they provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while exploring geological history. The Arabia Mountain Trail, for example, boasts stunning vistas of lush greenery and granite boulders that date back millions of years.
As you hike along these trails with your dog, keep an eye out for interesting rock formations like monadnocks, which are isolated mountains that rise abruptly from the surrounding landscape. These natural wonders make great photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera and snap some shots of your four-legged companion against a backdrop of towering rock formations. With so much natural beauty to discover, it’s no wonder that Georgia is such a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends alike!
Now that you know how to stay safe while exploring Georgia’s wilderness with your dog by your side, let’s dive into one specific trail that offers breathtaking scenery: Springer Mountain Trail.
Springer Mountain Trail
You’ll love hiking the Springer Mountain Trail for its stunning views and dog-friendly atmosphere. As a dog lover, you can bring your furry friend to enjoy the scenic hike with you. The trail is also accessible for all skill levels, making it perfect for beginners or those who want a leisurely pace. With easy access to the Appalachian Trail, this trail offers an unforgettable experience.
To fully enjoy your hike on Springer Mountain Trail, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Pack plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup.
Remember to bring waste bags to clean up after your pet.
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions as temperatures can vary at higher elevations.
The highlight of this trail is reaching the summit of Springer Mountain which provides breathtaking panoramic views. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you take in the view with your furry companion by your side. Don’t forget to snap some pictures!
Overall, Springer Mountain Trail is a great choice if you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike with incredible views. With easy access to Appalachian Trail camping areas nearby, it’s also perfect for those who want to extend their adventure overnight. So grab your hiking boots and leash and hit the trails!
Some other dog friendly hikes and trails include:
Yonah Mountain
Hemlock Falls Trail
Raven Cliff Falls
Anna Ruby Falls
Many trails along the Chattahoochee River
Many trails near Helen where dogs are welcome
Conclusion
Congratulations, you have discovered some of the most dog-friendly hikes and trails with spectacular views in Georgia! You and your furry friend are sure to have a paw-some adventure while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
As you explore these trails, take note of how hiking can be like life. Just as each path may lead you to different destinations, life can take us down various paths as well. Some paths may be easy and well-marked, while others may be steep and challenging. But just like hiking, if we keep moving forward with determination and perseverance, we will eventually reach our destination.
One anecdote that perfectly illustrates this metaphor is the Blood Mountain Loop Trail. This trail is known for its stunning views but also its steep inclines that can leave even experienced hikers feeling challenged. As you climb up the mountain with your four-legged companion by your side, you may feel out of breath or tired at times. But when you reach the top and gaze out at the breathtaking view below, it’s all worth it. Life is much like this trail – there will be tough times along the way, but if we keep pushing through them, we’ll find rewards waiting for us on the other side.
And if you’re looking for even more dog-friendly adventures in Georgia, don’t worry – there are plenty of nature trails available with leash restrictions.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your pup’s leash and hit one of these dog-friendly trails today! Not only will you both get some exercise and fresh air but also create memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to always pack plenty of water for yourself and your furry friend, stay on designated paths to preserve nature’s beauty, pick up after your pet to keep the environment clean for everyone else to enjoy too! Happy hiking!
Dahlonega is home to the Dahlonega Plateau and in 2018 it was recognized as a viticultural area. In layman’s terms it means that the area has unique soil characterizes, sunlight and climate that is special to growing grapes.
The Dahlonega Wineries
Etowah Meadery
The Etwowah Meadery offers a special unique wine to the Dahlonega area. Meads are a honey based wine that is made with fruits and spices from around the world, mainly China, Europe, and Africa. Mead has gained popularity in the US in recent years.
Their meads range in flavor and carry Southern Georgia naming conventions like: De Sotos Quest, Picking Up Paw Paws and Georgia Standard.
As a veteran owned business, sales from their Coop Dreams support disabled veterans.
This winery does not fall into the new category but their wines are just as delicious. This is a family ran business that sources fruits from Georgia, California, Texas and other locations which creates it’s complex flavors.
Accent Cellars offers wine tastings 7 days a week and have live music Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. What is unique about this winery, is they explicitly state to bring your picnic and enjoy their wine, (on their website) while other places frown upon the practice.
What’s amazing is that this winery grows 25 different grape varieties and makes some of the best blended wines around.
Frogtown Cellars has a long track record of wine awards since 2010:
2 Platinum
36 Gold
82 Silver
92 Bronze Medals
These winemakers have adopted French and Italian winemaking rules as they require strict compliance which protects and assists wine drinkers in identification of terrior-based wines.
Frogtown Cellars offers dining for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch at their Italian Bistro. While their wines are made on site, so is many of their foods: pizza dough, pasta dough, and desserts. All of their meats are smoked and cured on site except for the Italian imports.
Grab a glass, a charcuterie board and enjoy their long porches with spectacular mountain views.
Kaya Vineyard was renamed from the original Blackstock Vineyards. Along with wines, serving as a retreat and wedding venue, they have craftsman style cottages to relax a weekend away in.
They offer a light lunch menu from Tuesdays to Sundays with live music on the covered patio. Offerings include simple artisanal charcuterie boards to hand-helds and plates.
This winery was the first in the region. All their fruit is Georgia grown with most on their 184 acres. The property was purchased in 1995 with the first harvest in 2000 and named after Three Sisters Mountain.
When you arrive inside, you will be greeted with their large cherry wood tasting room. On Summer Saturdays, they have live music. If weather permits, enjoy a glass on their rock wall patio.
When you are at Wolf Mountain, you will feel like you are in Europe enjoying your wine instead of North Georgia. They use French winemaking processes and the European varieties make for much different wines than the other Dahlonega wineries.
And just to fit in with the wines, Wolf Mountain is designed to resemble a craftsman cottage that sits atop of the fieldstone encased cellar.
Along with their wines, they offer farm focused menus that are carefully paired with their wine selection. Their team prepares everything on-site and menus change seasonally with local selections.
Offers tastings 7 days a week. Cavendar Creek Vineyards was started when the original owner hand planted the original grape vines and produced the first vintage in 2009.
A mainstay and mascot on the property are the donkeys, so much so that they are affectionately knows as “the winery with the donkeys”.
They offer lodging, but it is limited to two cabins. One of them being 200 years old.
They offer wine tastings and represent Georgia’s oldest winery Georgia Winery located near Ringold, GA. They offer wine and pub tours along with ghost and history tours.
19 E. Main Street, Suite F, Dahlonega, GA 30533
CANVAS AND CORK, WINE TASTING, ART GALLERY, ARTISTS STUDIOS AND CLASSROOM
Their wine selection is from Gin Creek Vineyards in Hartsfield GA and is a satellite tasting room.
Canvas and Cork has a selection of 16 wines to select from: Fine wines, muscadines, dessert wines, Moscato, dry, off dry, semi sweet and sweet, so be assured there’s something for everyone!
Stating start at $12 for 5 tastings or $20 for 5 tastings and get your choice of a hand painted wine glass!
Cork and Canvas is part of the Dahlonega Wine Walk, where participates receive discounts. Among other things to do here, are painting classes from watercolor to acrylic. Other crafts are taught here as well along with summer classes for kids. Private classes are also available.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
Over 100 waterfalls are located in the North Georgia mountains. Some of these waterfalls are on public lands and many are on private property.
These waterfalls are easily accessible on public lands. Remember that water levels affect the beauty of waterfalls and always use caution when around waterfalls.
These waterfalls are within a 25 mile radius of Dahlonega, GA. Even though, 25 miles may not seem like much, the drive will more than likely be longer because of mountain roads and slower traffic.
Cane Creek Falls
Cane Creek Falls is 2.9 miles from Dahlonega Square and is located on private property at Camp Glisson, but is open to the public only when the camp is not in session. At the entrance gate, there are signs that tell the public when it is closed.
Cane Creek Falls eventually falls in to he Chestatee River, which provides a good outing for kayaking, tubing or canoeing. This waterfall has a viewing platform at the top.
Clay Creek Falls
Clay Creek Falls is located on private property 2.9 miles away, but is viewable from the road.
There is not a place to park to observe the falls on foot, but it is very close to the road and well worth a drive by to see it, especially when the water is at higher levels.
Black Falls
Black Falls is at the Army Ranger training camp at Camp Frank D. Merrill. one of the higher falls in this guide. Be aware that if the gate is open, you may be able to observe Black Falls. A wooden gate across the creek makes an excellent photo opportunity.
Training facilities are located nearby, so viewing may or may not be permissible when you are here. Do not sneak onto the property.
Montgomery Creek Falls
Montgomery Creek Falls is an isolated fall located in the Chattahoochee National Forest. There are mountain bike trails nearby, so be on the lookout. It is about half a mile to get there on an old logging road. It is just over 11 miles from Dahlonega.
Dicks Creek Falls
16 miles from Dahlonega Square, Dicks Creek Falls is really a couple of waterfalls located on Dicks Creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
It is is a very popular swimming hole for the locals and also provides a photo opportunity while taking a break. The hike is almost 1.25 miles round trip.
DeSoto Falls
18 miles from Dahlonega, DeSoto Falls consists of an upper falls and lower falls. The upper falls is a .75 mile hike up the creek with the lower falls .25 mile downstream. The total drop of all the falls is 480 feet.
Camping is also available and there is a restroom.
Long Creek Falls
At 50 feet tall, Long Creek Falls is another waterfall with a large pool at the bottom that is used as a swimming hole. The trail to Long Creek Falls is almost 2 miles round trip on the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail offers a scenic view.
Helton Creek Falls
Helton Creek Falls has one of the most spectacular falls and is 25 miles from Dahlonega and is also clos o Blairsville, GA. Like many others, it is a double waterfall. Helton Creek Falls has an observation deck between the upper and lower falls.
The trail itself is less than a quarter of a mile to get there. Unfortunately as of May 2022, this trail is closed due to needed repairs.
Dukes Creek Falls
From the parking lot the 1.25 mile trail goes town to observation deck at the foot of the 150 foot waterfall. There is an observation deck that is wheelchair accessible and has parking available for 30 vehicles. It is about 24 miles from Dahlonega.
This area has a stunning view of Mt. Yonah, which is a popular mountain for hiking and climbing. Sometimes the Army Rangers can be seen here during their training.
Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the area. It’s in the Chattahoochee National Forest but is not on the Appalachian Trail. The trail to the falls is 2.5 miles one way from the parking lot. Raven Cliff Falls is a triple fall totaling 100 feet. The trail does have water crossings.
It is about 25 miles from Dahlonega, GA, but is well worth the driver for a longer hike. Other cities nearby are Helen, GA and Blairsville, GA.
Amicalola Falls, GA
Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River at 729 feet high and is roughly 19 miles from Dahlonega. There is an entrance fee and the Appalachian trail starts here.
You can park at the bottom for a view up the falls or you can drive to the top of the falls to get a good view of the park. There is a new viewing deck that can be reached by driving to the middle of the falls. Along the falls, there is a metal staircase that goes from the bottom to the top of the falls. Many also choose to hike from the bottom as well.
Out of these waterfalls, I have only been to one, but many times – Amicalola Falls. If you choose to take the stairs, do know that there are many stairs. 604stairs to be exact. If you bring your dog, be aware that they are metal. If I would take mine, I would make sure to bring his shoes.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Dahlonega, Georgia has plenty to offer any visitor. It’s just a little over an hour from Atlanta, Georgia in the Northeastern area of Georgia. Spend a day at one of its local vineyards, go gold panning at its historic mine, or spend some time hiking in the surrounding countryside. There’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful town!
Gold Panning
Dahlonega Georgia is the home to the first gold rush of the USA, that started in 1828. When the gold rush hit in California 20 years later, many left to seek there fortunes in the west.
Every year they have a gold rush festival in downtown Dahlonega. I went there in the Fall of 2021 by chance.
Gold panning is a fun activity for all ages and it is a great way to learn about the history of gold mining. There are several places to pan for gold in Dahlonega.
Consolidated Gold Mine
The Consolidated Gold Mine is my personal favorite. Here they have underground tours, gem mining, gold panning, and a gem studio along with offering group tours. For a family, it’s an easy afternoon of family fun.
The consolidated mines are located at: 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road Dahlonega, GA 30533
If you want to rent equipment and try your hand at finding some gold yourself, this is an excellent place to do so! The process isn’t complicated at all and most people find that they enjoy it more than they thought they would.
Wine Tasting
The winery scene in Dahlonega is on the upswing, with 12 wine tasting rooms and 8 wineries. There are plenty of places to explore what Georgia mountain town has to offer.
The history of wine in Dahlonega goes back over 200 years, when it was first planted in 1821 by German immigrants. Many of the wineries have received hundreds of rewards over the years.
If you’re not up to traveling to the wineries yourself, try a winery tour that will leave you worry free.
If time is not on your side, there are many places to sample wines the one of the many Dahlonega tasting rooms.
Foods
There is a variety of cuisines within Dahlonega, GA.
Hiking to Nearby Waterfalls
While you’re in Dahlonega, you can hike to nearby waterfalls. There are 12 easily accessible waterfalls within 25 mile radius of downtown Dahlonega.
If possible, bring: water, bug spray, sunscreen, sneakers or hiking boots (the latter being required if hiking up Burnt Mountain)
If you’re looking for a way to get outside and enjoy the natural wonders of Dahlonega, Georgia, consider kayaking on the Chestatee River. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown Dahlonega, GA. Once there, follow signs leading to put-in points. You’ll need your own boat and gear; rentals are not available at this time.
Depending on how much experience you have with kayaking and what type of water conditions are present when you go out into the river, it’ll take anywhere between 1 hour and 3 hours to complete your trip downriver (and back).
Because public parking is limited near put-ins points along Highway 400—and because they fill up quickly during warmer months when more people are enjoying themselves outdoors—it’s best if everyone carpools together before setting out on their adventure!
Dahlonega is rich in adventure, culture and charm.
Dahlonega is rich in adventure, culture and charm.
It is a great place to go for a weekend getaway, vacation or even just for day trip. There are many things to do in Dahlonega Georgia that will make your visit memorable.
Conclusion
You may need at least three days to enjoy the area, but if you have more time, then you can spend the extra day hiking to nearby waterfalls or kayaking down the Chestatee River.
Cathy Gray is a natural adventurer in her personal and professional life. She adapts to overcome while maintaining an infectious laugh that will make you smile.
Professionally, Cathy currently works for an industrial hose and hydraulics company. While she was a green-horn in the hose business, she spearheaded the company’s eCommerce site from the ground up from a blank canvas to live and selling within 6 months. She continues to grow the company’s online and digital presence while increasing sales year over year.
