One of the most visited waterfalls and swimming holes near Blairsville, Georgia, Helton Creek Falls is an all-time favorite for Georgians! It’s a short, family-friendly hike that leads to two stunning waterfalls, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
Although there isn’t too much need for hiking at Helton Creek Falls, you can never be too prepared for any adventure. In this blog post, I’m going to make sure your next trip to Helton Creek Falls is completely hashed out so you can set yourself up for a fun trip!
Getting to Helton Creek Falls
Located approximately 12 miles south of Blairsville, Helton Creek Falls is a convenient day trip from various parts of Georgia. It’s about two hours away from downtown Atlanta, and here’s the best way to reach the falls:
- Begin on I-85 North: Start your journey by merging onto I-85 North from downtown Atlanta.
- Transition to GA-400 North: After approximately 5 miles, take exit 87 to merge onto GA-400 North toward Buckhead/Cumming.
- Continue on GA-400 North: Proceed on GA-400 North for about 60 miles until it transitions into US-19 North.
- Exit onto GA-115: Take the exit toward GA-115 and turn right onto GA-115 South.
- Turn Left onto Long Branch Road: After approximately 4.8 miles, turn left onto Long Branch Road.
- Continue onto Lavender Road: Proceed on Long Branch Road for about 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Lavender Road.
- Turn Left onto Town Creek Church Road: After 1.2 miles on Lavender Road, turn left onto Town Creek Church Road.
- Turn Right onto Frogtown Road: Continue on Town Creek Church Road for 3.5 miles, then turn right onto Frogtown Road.
- Turn Left onto Damascus Church Road: After 2.8 miles on Frogtown Road, turn left onto Damascus Church Road.
- Merge onto US-19 North: Proceed on Damascus Church Road for 1.7 miles, then turn right onto US-19 North.
- Continue onto US-129/US-19 North: Stay on US-19 North for approximately 10 miles, where it merges with US-129 North.
- Turn Left onto Helton Creek Road: After passing Vogel State Park, turn left onto Helton Creek Road, a gravel road.
- Arrive at Helton Creek Falls: Continue on Helton Creek Road for about 2.2 miles to reach the small parking area near the trailhead for Helton Creek Falls.
Important Note: Helton Creek Road is a narrow gravel road that can be rough in certain sections. Drive cautiously, especially after inclement weather, as the road may have ruts or become slippery.
The parking area is free but limited, accommodating about 10 vehicles. It’s essential to arrive early to secure a spot during peak times, and especially on weekends because it gets PACKED. If the lot is full, parking along the roadside is an option. Try to park as much off the road as possible so you’re not blocking traffic because cars do go both ways on this road, and you don’t want to be the cause of an incident!
Drive cautiously on Helton Creek Road, as it’s a narrow gravel path with potential ruts and potholes. While standard vehicles can navigate it, you still have to drive carefully so you don’t damage your car.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit
Helton Creek Falls is an easy and beginner-friendly hike, but there are still a few things to keep in mind for a smooth experience:
- Wear sturdy shoes – Even though the trail is short, sections can be muddy or slippery after rain. Shoes with good grip will help you navigate the wet areas safely.
- Watch your step near the falls – Rocks surrounding the waterfalls are incredibly slippery due to constant mist and moss growth. Step carefully, and avoid climbing on wet rocks.
- Check the weather before visiting – Rain can cause higher water levels and strong currents, making conditions unsafe for wading or swimming.
- Respect the environment — As always, follow Leave No Trace principles. Take all trash with you and avoid disturbing the area’s natural beauty.
- Arrive early on weekends – The small parking area fills up quickly, especially in spring and fall. Visiting on a weekday or early morning will help you avoid crowds.
SEE ALSO: What to Pack When Hiking
The Trail Experience
The Helton Creek Falls Trail is a brief 0.3-mile out-and-back path, and only 19 ft of elevation gain, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Despite its short length, the trail rewards hikers with views of two amazing waterfalls along Helton Creek.
The Lower Falls is a 40-foot cascade that gently flows over a smooth rock face into a shallow, clear pool. A wooden staircase leads down to the base, offering an up-close experience. The shallow waters make it a popular spot for wading, especially for families with young children.
The Upper Falls is a short ascent from the lower falls that brings you to the approximately 50-foot-tall falls. An observation deck there provides a safe and amazing photo vantage point. The pool at the base is deeper and is perfect to take a dip in during the warmer months. Please be careful if you choose to go down to the swimming hole; there’s no actual path to it, and the slippery rocks and varying water depths can cause difficulty.
Best Times to Visit
Helton Creek Falls offers something unique every season, making it a great year-round hike. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, and seasonal rains ensure the waterfalls are at their fullest. As temperatures rise in summer, the trees provide a cool and refreshing shade from the heat. This is also the perfect time to bring the swimsuit and jump into the cool water at the base of the falls.
Fall is the best time to visit for photo ops, as the surrounding forest becomes an amazing painting of fall colors. The crisp autumn air makes the short hike even more enjoyable. In winter, the falls take on a peaceful, secluded charm, with fewer visitors and a quiet, serene atmosphere. However, hikers should be cautious of icy patches on the trail, especially near the waterfall viewing areas.
SEE ALSO: Waterfalls near Helen, GA
Where to Eat & Relax After the Hike
After exploring the falls, end the day by visiting the nearby town of Blairsville, which offers a variety of dining options:
- Hole In The Wall: Established in the 1930s, this historic diner serves Southern comfort food with a global twist. It’s a beloved local institution known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.
- The Sawmill Place: A beloved farm-to-table restaurant in Blairsville, The Sawmill Place is known for its hearty, locally sourced meals and cozy mountain cabin atmosphere.
- Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe: Offering authentic Italian dishes, this café is known for its creative pasta and notable bourbon chicken. The cozy ambiance makes it a perfect place to relax and refuel.
For those looking to extend their adventure, nearby Vogel State Park offers additional hiking trails, camping facilities, and the scenic Lake Trahlyta and Trahlyta Falls. The park is located basically right across from Helton Creek Rd off US-129, making it a convenient stop before or after your visit to Helton Creek Falls.
Just 15 minutes from Helton Creek Falls, Mountain Crossings at Neel Gap is a must-visit stop along the Appalachian Trail. This historic spot is famous for being the first major resupply point for northbound thru-hikers making their way to Maine. The shop has trail gear, snacks, and unique souvenirs that celebrate Appalachian Trail culture. One of the most iconic sights here is the “Shoe Tree”—a collection of worn-out boots tossed over the branches by hikers who have either finished their journey or called it quits.
A trip to Brasstown Bald is well worth the short 30-minute drive. Standing at 4,784 feet, it’s the highest peak in Georgia, offering breathtaking 360-degree views that stretch across four states on a clear day. You can either hike the steep half-mile trail to the summit or take a seasonal shuttle if you’d rather save your legs.
At the top, it’s usually 10-15 degrees cooler than the lower elevations, making it a perfect escape on a hot summer day.
Final Thoughts: Is Helton Creek Falls Worth the Visit?
Absolutely! Helton Creek Falls is one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfall hikes in North Georgia. The short trail makes it perfect for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a quick outdoor escape. With two stunning waterfalls, peaceful forest surroundings, and easy accessibility, it’s a great spot to relax, take in nature, and capture beautiful photos.
Have you visited Helton Creek Falls before? Drop a comment below and let me know what you thought of this hidden gem!