The area around Clayton, Georgia is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a quick spot to relax and take in the scenery, Clayton’s waterfalls offer something for everyone.
This guide will explore 10 of the closest waterfalls near Clayton. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to be awed by the natural beauty of North Georgia.
Mud Creek Falls
If you’re looking for a beautiful waterfall that’s easy to access, Mud Creek Falls is a great option. Located near Sky Valley, just a short drive from Clayton, this waterfall has a vertical drop of 100 feet and flows into Estatoah Falls in Dillard.
To get to Mud Creek Falls, take U.S. 441 north from Clayton and turn right on GA Hwy. 246 towards Sky Valley. Turn left at Sky Valley’s entrance gate, then right on Tahoe Road and continue to the falls. It’s a short walk from the parking area to the falls, so it’s a great option for families with young children or anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful waterfall without a long hike.
There are two picnic tables available on a first come, first serve basis, so you can enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the beauty of the falls. If you’re interested in exploring more waterfalls in the area, be sure to check out Rabun County’s spectacular waterfalls.
Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls is a must-see waterfall located in the Chattahoochee National Forest near the western end of Lake Rabun in Tallulah Falls, GA. This stunning waterfall is approximately 100 feet high, falling and shoaling. The name “Minnehaha” comes from the Native American word for “waterfall,” which is fitting since the waterfall is located on Cherokee land.
To get to Minnehaha Falls, you can follow the Minnehaha Trail which is about 0.4 miles long. The trail follows Fall Branch until it dead-ends at the waterfall. The trail is easy to follow and is well-maintained, making it accessible for all skill levels.
When you reach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by the sound of rushing water and the cool mist from the falls. The waterfall widens as it cascades in 3-5 foot increments to a wide pool at its base. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Becky Branch Falls & Martin Creek Falls
If you’re looking for an easily accessible waterfall near Clayton, Becky Branch Falls and Martin Creek Falls are two you can easily hit in one trip. The trailhead is located just five minutes from downtown Clayton and can be reached by following the Bartram Trail north from Warwoman Dell for approximately 0.25 miles to a footbridge at the base of the falls.
The trail to Becky Branch Falls is easy to moderate and ascends steeply in places. The cascading falls are approximately 20 feet tall and make for a great photo opportunity.
While you’re in the area, consider hiking to Martin Creek Falls as well. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the cascading water. There’s plenty of space to sit and enjoy the scenery before you finish the hike.
RELATED: 3 Majestic Waterfalls Near Blairsville, GA
Ada-Hi Falls
Ada-Hi Falls is another must-visit if you want a waterfall with a short hike. This waterfall is located within Black Rock Mountain State Park and is the highest elevation waterfall in the state. The name Ada-Hi is Cherokee for “forest”.
The trail to Ada-Hi Falls is considered moderately challenging, but it takes only about 20 minutes to complete. The trail is 0.6-km out-and-back and starts off with a boardwalk and viewing platform where you can see the falls cascading down a steep rock face. The view from the platform is breathtaking and definitely worth the hike.
Angel Falls & Panther Falls
If you’re looking for a peaceful hike to two beautiful waterfalls, Angel Falls and Panther Falls are definitely worth a visit. These cascading falls are located along Joe Branch Creek in Rabun County, just a short drive from Clayton, GA.
The trail to the falls is an easy 1.75-mile hike, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick outdoor adventure. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way.
To get to the falls, take US 441 south from Clayton for 7 miles. Turn right on an unnumbered county road for .1 mile, then turn left on GA Hwy 15 for two miles. Turn right on County Road 10 for five miles. Enter Rabun Beach Campground #2 entrance, go .2 miles to the parking area on the right. The trailhead is 80 feet to the north.
Once you’re on the trail, you’ll follow the west side of Joe Branch for .6 mile until you reach Panther Falls. The waterfall is about 50 feet tall and is a beautiful sight to behold. Continue on the trail for another .3 mile, and you’ll reach Angel Falls. This waterfall is also about 50 feet tall and is just as stunning as Panther Falls.
Hemlock Falls
Hemlock Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in Moccasin Creek State Park near Clayton, Georgia. The falls are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers alike, and for good reason. The waterfall is a 15-foot cascade that tumbles into Moccasin Creek, surrounded by lush forest and scenic views.
To get to Hemlock Falls, visitors can take the Hemlock Falls Trail, which is a relatively moderate 2-mile round trip hike. Along the way, hikers will pass by two smaller cascades before reaching the main attraction. The trail follows Moccasin Creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and wildlife.
One of the best things about Hemlock Falls is that it is always open and free to the public, including free parking. Visitors can enjoy the waterfall year-round, although the best time to visit is in the spring when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Holcomb Creek Falls
We recently visited Holcomb Creek Falls, located near Clayton, Georgia, and were blown away by the natural beauty of this waterfall. The falls are easily accessible via a 2-mile loop hike that begins at the Holcomb Creek trailhead.
The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of both Holcomb Creek Falls and Ammons Falls. We highly recommend bringing a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
The trail is rated as moderate, with some uphill sections on the return trip. However, we found it to be a manageable hike for all skill levels. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
Dick’s Creek Falls
If you’re looking for a stunning waterfall that’s easy to access, Dick’s Creek Falls is a great choice. The waterfall is located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, just a short drive from Clayton.
At approximately 60 feet high, the waterfall makes a sheer drop over a granite mound into the Chattooga River. The area where the waterfall meets the river is truly breathtaking and makes for a great photo opportunity.
To get to Dick’s Creek Falls from Clayton, drive six miles east on Warwoman Road and turn right onto Dick’s Creek Road or Sandy Ford Road. The trail to the falls is 1.2 miles round trip and is rated as moderate. While the trail is not too difficult, it does have some steep sections and uneven terrain, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and take your time.
Explore Other Waterfalls in Northern Georgia
While Clayton offers some of the most stunning waterfalls in Georgia, there are plenty of others in the area you can visit. Here are some of our top picks:
- Amicalola Falls: Located in Dawsonville, Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia, standing at 729 feet tall. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls or take a staircase to the middle of the falls for a closer view.
- Anna Ruby Falls: One of the many beautiful waterfalls in Helen, Anna Ruby Falls is a twin waterfall that cascades down from Tray Mountain. Visitors can enjoy a short hike to the falls and take in the beautiful scenery.
- DeSoto Falls: Located in Cleveland, DeSoto Falls is a series of waterfalls that flow into the Frogtown Creek. Visitors can hike to the falls and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Raven Cliff Falls: Located in Helen, Raven Cliff Falls is a 40-foot waterfall that cascades down a rock face into a pool below. Visitors can hike to the falls and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
- Toccoa Falls: Located in Toccoa, Toccoa Falls is a 186-foot waterfall that flows from the campus of Toccoa Falls College. Visitors can take a short walk to the falls and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.