This Georgia Hike Will Make You Feel Like You're In A Rainforest In The Bahamas
When it comes to beautiful hikes and must-see waterfalls, Georgia is hard to beat. There are so many beautiful sights to see all over the state and they'll all make you feel like you've traveled thousands of miles away without actually whipping out the passport. This short hike near Atlanta will not only give you a break from reality, but it'll feel like you're in the rainforests of the Bahamas.
The Helton Creek Falls Trail is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Blairsville, Georgia at Vogle State Park. The forests here that you'll hike through are so enchanting and the surprises you'll have at the end will be even better.
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How long is the actual hike?
To get to Helton Creek Falls, you'll only be hiking 0.2-miles each way, coming in at about a half-mile round-trip. It's perfect if you don't want to hike your entire day away, but still want to get a little exercise in and see some stunning nature views.
The elevation is known to rise and fall abruptly throughout this short journey to get to the bottom of the waterfall, but overall it'll still be an easy to moderate trek.
What will you experience on this trail?
As soon as you start your hike and enter the forest, you'll be able to hear the gushing of the waterfall. You won't be able to see it until you come up to the 40-foot long lower-falls first that flow over a rocky outcropping.
As you continue on your adventure along the path, you'll be met with the huge cascading upper falls that plunge 50-feet into a clear, blue pool below. There's an observation deck you can take a few photos on before making your way down to the pool of water below.
Even better? It's completely free to adventure here.
Are there swimming opportunities?
While you can't swim below the waterfall directly, you can wade in the pool that it flows out to. You can stay on the observation deck to take photos and view the waterfall if you don't want to dip your toes in.
The state park's website states to never climb on the rocks around the waterfalls. These rocks can become super slippery and lead to falling, so take extra precautions when around those areas. You should also keep to the trail at all times during your journey to protect the plant life and soil.
The water is so clear and blue, you'll think you've ventured miles away from Georgia and washed up into a tropical oasis.
Helton Creek Falls
Price: Free
Address: US Hwy. 129S, Blairsville, GA
Why You Need To Go: This hike will not only make you feel like you're in a tropical rainforest, but it'll lead you to cascading waterfalls that pour out into crystal clear, blue pools.
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.