Helton Creek Falls is made up of two side-by-side waterfalls and is surrounded by dense forest.
Helton Creek Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
12m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Helton Creek Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Helton Creek Falls famous?
Helton Creek Falls is beloved for its unique twin cascades that split around a large boulder, creating a distinctive double waterfall framed by mountain laurel and rhododendron. It's a local favorite for photographers and a classic easy waterfall hike in the North Georgia mountains.
Can you swim at Helton Creek Falls?
No. The pool at the base is shallow and rocky, not suitable for swimming. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Helton Creek Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on the trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Helton Creek Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit required to visit Helton Creek Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Helton Creek Falls?
Free gravel parking area with space for approximately 10–15 vehicles at the trailhead off Forest Service Road 118. The lot can fill on weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Helton Creek Falls?
About 0.4 km / 0.25 mi one-way (0.8 km / 0.5 mi return) from the parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Helton Creek Falls hike difficulty
Easy. Short, mostly downhill trail with some stone steps and tree roots; minimal elevation change. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Helton Creek Falls?
Spring (March–May) for highest water flow from snowmelt and rain, or autumn (October–November) for fall foliage. Summer can have reduced flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Helton Creek Falls
From the parking area on FR 118, follow the clearly marked trail downhill through the forest. The path descends via stone steps and crosses a wooden footbridge. After the bridge, continue a short distance to reach the viewing area at the base of the twin cascades. The trail can be slippery when wet.
Helton Creek Falls official website
Attractions near Helton Creek Falls
- •Vogel State Park – Georgia's second-oldest state park with lake, camping, trails (4 miles south)
- •Brasstown Bald – Georgia's highest peak with observation tower and panoramic views (15 miles northeast)
- •DeSoto Falls Scenic Area – Multi-tiered waterfall with short hike (12 miles south)
- •Blood Mountain – Popular Appalachian Trail summit hike with shelter (10 miles south)
- •Blairsville town square – charming mountain town with shops and restaurants (8 miles east)
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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