The Falls Staircase
About 600 steps alongside the falls, with a bridge across the cascade. Short flat paths also reach the base.
Amicalola Falls
Georgia's tallest waterfall, tumbling 729 feet down a mountainside, and the traditional start of the Appalachian Trail.
The falls drop in a long, bright cascade of 729 feet, among the tallest in the Southeast. A staircase climbs right beside them, with a bridge across the middle, and you can also drive to a viewpoint at the top.
It's also where many Appalachian Trail hikers begin their journey to Maine: the 8.5-mile Approach Trail leaves from the visitor center and climbs to Springer Mountain.
- Best Time
- March–May for water, October for color
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Every day
- Getting There
- About 90 minutes by car north of Atlanta.
What to See
0 of 3 are freeTop of the Falls Overlook
An easy drive and a short walk for the view down the mountains.
Appalachian Approach Trail
The arch at the visitor center marks the start. Even hiking the first mile is a fine thing to say you've done.
Know Before You Go
- The park charges a daily parking fee, which went up in 2026. The lots fill on fall and summer weekends, so come early.
- Falls are fullest after rain and in spring.
Where to Stay
Stay in the park's lodge, or in Dahlonega.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
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If You're NearbyAtlanta
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Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthplace and church, the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Southeast list.