Hiking in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is packed with picturesque and stimulating hikes for all skill levels and abilities. While hiking, please make sure you pack out what you pack in, respect nature and the trails, and always prepare beforehand with all your essentials.
Preacher’s Rock
Preacher’s Rock is a very popular hike located in the North Georgia mountains, and also part of the Appalachian Trail. In terms of day hikes, this one is fairly easy, only spanning a total of two miles and an elevation gain of 436 feet. The trailhead starts at the Woody Gap parking area, which also has some great views on a clear day.
From the parking lot, this out and back trail starts with a gradual elevation gain for the first two-thirds of the hike up. The remaining distance to the summit is where the workout comes in! The hike becomes more steep, with several switchbacks to ascend to the final rock outcrop. The views from Preacher’s Rock are impeccable, but be sure to check the weather beforehand because if it is a foggy day, you may not be able to enjoy the views.
Photo by Tee George.
Anna Ruby Falls
If you are ever in the Helen, Georgia area when visiting the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, then visiting Anna Ruby Falls is a must! The area does have an entrance fee of $5 per person above the age of 15, and it is highly recommended to arrive early to secure a spot in the parking lot. When the parking lot fills, the rangers will hold off on letting people in until enough people have left to free up space.
The visitor’s center at the head of the parking lot offers gifts, souvenirs, and information on the area and waterfalls, as well as snacks and items you may have forgotten.
The trail is located to the left of the building and is completely paved, making it wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. The out and back trail is 0.9 miles total, a great place for a quick family trip outdoors!
Photo by Tee George.
Brasstown Bald
One of the best places to look out and see all the rolling peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is Brasstown Bald. The Brasstown Bald Visitor’s Center is located in Hiawassee, Georgia and sits at the top of a mountain at an elevation of 4,784 feet (the tallest mountain in Georgia). There is a $8 per person admission fee during the regular hours of 10 am – 5 pm and it can be paid to the attendant in the kiosk before parking, or inside the gift shop at the head of the trail if you don’t have cash. After hours the fee is $5 per person.
From the parking lot, there are shuttles that run during the open hours that can take you to the top of the mountain to visit the observation deck. If you’d rather take the trail, the hike starts to the left of the gift shop and is a 0.6 mile paved path with an elevation gain of about 400 feet. It’s considered a moderately difficult hike due to this quick elevation gain, so be sure to pack enough water and take breaks if needed. The observation deck at the top offers amazing 360 degree views of the mountains and is picture perfect during sunset!
DeSoto Falls
DeSoto Falls is a beautiful set of waterfalls located in North Georgia. The hike starts from the parking area and goes for a total of about two miles round trip with an elevation gain of only about 160 feet. From the trail head, you’ll first come across a wooden bridge that will cross the Frogtown Creek, and the lower falls will come around 0.25 miles into the hike.
Then, after another 0.75 miles of beautiful forest trekking, you will reach the upper falls. It’s highly recommended to bring lunch and take a break at the viewing platform and take some pictures as well!
Helton Creek Falls
If you’re looking for a waterfall that you can also swim at the base of, then Helton Creek Falls is the way to go! This waterfall is a super short trek from the parking area that has grown in popularity over the years. It is recommended to get there early, especially during the summer, because the parking area does fill quickly. From the parking area, it's only a 0.15 mile hike to the waterfall and swimming hole.
The trail has an upper and lower portion of the falls. You’ll see a separate staircase leading to the base of the lower falls. There is a small pool of water at the base of these falls, which is a great place for toddlers and smaller children to get in the water. At the upper falls, the swimming hole is larger, making this more suitable for adults.
About the Author
Tee George is an outdoor influencer that is based out of Atlanta, GA highlighting beautiful destinations in the Southeast and beyond. She can most often be found exploring the great outdoors whether it’s through hiking, camping, skiing, or water sports. Her love for exploring is both inclusive and inspiring as she uses her social channels to encourage people of all backgrounds to spend time outside.
You can find her on Instagram and read about her adventures on her blog.
Cover photo by Deborah Steir.
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