Anna Ruby Falls in Georgia, USA 2024-2025

Spectacular Anna Ruby Falls encompasses two twin waterfalls tucked in the heart of Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, Northern Georgia. The drops rush over the cliffs towering against the emerald leafy backdrop and splash into the pools of mossy boulders, making for a picture-perfect view. People visit the falls year-round and love them for their sublime beauty, as well as proximity to Alpine Helen and Unicoi State Park.

When is the best time to visit Anna Ruby Falls

The best time of year to visit Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area is March to December when all facilities operate daily with extended hours from 9 am to 6 pm (last admission at 5 pm). If you're interested in specifics of seasons, then here's a quick breakdown: in the spring, the rapids abound fed by snowmelt and showers; summer remains the all-time favorite anyway; lastly, fall takes credit for the foliage splendor. In January and February, the recreation area is usually closed to the public on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Also, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are days off.

Anna Ruby Falls facts

The waterfall sits at the junction of Curtis and York Creeks, which are both parts of Tray Mountain. Curtis Creek crashes 153 feet (47 m), and York Creek—50 feet (15 m). The creeks merge into a Smith Creek, tumbling into Unicoi Lake and eventually emptying in the Chattahoochee River. The journey continues further south to the Apalachicola River in Florida, ending up in the Gulf of Mexico.

How to get to Anna Ruby Falls

Anna Ruby Falls is reached by an easy-to-moderate paved 0.4-mile (0.6-km) hike that will take you approximately 30 minutes to walk. The footpath lined with benches is both kids- and dog-friendly. Want to challenge yourself? Then take a 4.6-mile (7.4-km) Smith Creek Trail weaving from the base of Anna Ruby Falls to Unicoi State Park. Also, the Lion's Eye Trail welcomes wheelchair visitors and those with visual disabilities. The entry fees are $3 per person aged 16 and above and $25 per annual pass ($35 per family of three individuals).

Things to do at Anna Ruby Falls

While visiting Chattahoochee National Forest, you can engage in some other exciting activities, such as hummingbird viewing. The little avian migrants are observed in the Peach State from early March through mid-October, and some species call Georgia their winter home. In early June, the Alpine Village of Helen holds the oldest ballooning event in the South—Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race. If you come in the autumn season, check out the top fall foliage locations nearby including Vogel State Park and Brasstown Bald.

Where to stay at Anna Ruby Falls

The closest and most popular choice to stay over is Unicoi State Park & Lodge, nestled north-east of Helen, just minutes from Anna Ruby Falls. The lodgings are designed to meet most of various visitors' needs. Alternatively, you can opt for a slightly more distant Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. It's situated north of Young Harris, 15 miles (24 km) off the waterfalls, and is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Take your time to explore more hotel options near Anna Ruby Falls (view map to the right or below) and plan yourself a fascinating and thought-out holiday in Georgia.