High Shoals Falls & Blue Hole Falls in Georgia 2024-2025

High Shoals Falls & Blue Hole Falls trail is one of the most popular destinations in North Georgia, since it's very scenic and can be easily accessed. It is located in Chattahoochee National Forest, between Hiawassee and Helen, Georgia, about a two-hour drive from Atlanta. Visitors walk through a picturesque creek valley covered by green moss, before viewing one of the largest waterfalls in the state. First hikers reach the Blue Hole Falls, a smaller waterfall with a deep, blue-green pool, and then continues up to the High Shoals Falls, totally worth the effort.

High Shoals Falls Trail is a 4-km (2.5-mi) loop. The trail is quite flat with some sections of stairs and is rated as moderate. It can be rather crowded in the summer months. The trail is generally open year-round, but sometimes it is closed due to flooding, so check its status before you plan to come.

High Shoals Falls is surrounded by picturesque cliffs and blooming rhododendron in spring. It features an observation deck and a boardwalk with a view of river cascades. The rushing water is especially intense after rain, making a strong impression.