There are plenty of ways to beat the summer heat, but the most fun is getting in some water. North Georgia is full of natural pools, rivers, and waterfalls. Here are 5 spots I love!
1. The Sliding Rock At Tallulah Gorge State Park
Read more in-depth about this hike here.
Location
At a dramatic 1,000′ down, Tallulah Gorge is a stunning sight to see year-round, but the most rewarding way to experience it is to get IN there and hike the gorge floor. This is my favorite hike in Georgia and sliding down the rock into that crisp, natural pool is the most fun you can have on a hot, summer day. Make sure to save some energy for that intense climb back up to the gorge rim.
Tips
- Line up early (a little before the building opens at 8am) for a permit if you go on the weekend. The permits are free, but they go fast on a hot Saturday. I camped at the park’s Pioneer site the night before which is nice and secluded.
- Don’t go try to sneak past the permit sign without a permit. There are actually rangers who write tickets.
- Pack light and be careful. This is a challenging hike with terrain that can be at times rugged and other times slippery. I saw someone eat it with their backpack while crossing the water at the beginning (and check out this rad David Mack comic).
- Grab some blackberries alongside the road when you get to that part. They’re delicious.
Cost
$5 parking fee (free with an annual State Park Pass, check your local library if you don’t have one of your own)
2. Panther Creek Falls
Location
Panther Creek is a popular North Georgia trail for a reason. Hikers go a little over 3 miles into the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, passing super cool rock outcrops, gentle cascades and low bridges before reaching a beautiful waterfall. There’s quite a bit of erosion as you get closer to the falls so I would rate this trail moderate/intermediate. However, after you maneuver the more washed-out part of the trail, this waterfall and swimming hole are the perfect reward. Panther Creek is also a sweet spot to camp, especially if you get one of the spots on the shoals. Camping is free, but it’s first-come-first-serve.
Tips
- Again, please be careful.
- Go on a weekday or “off-peak” hours on the weekend if you can cuz it’s popular.
- Pack in, pack out! I know that’s common sense on every trail but people get trashy on here sometimes.
Cost
Free (depending where ya park)
3. Hemlock Falls At Moccasin Creek State Park
Location
If you’re in the mood for a quicker and quieter waterfall hike, try Moccasin Creek State Park. It’s a little busier than it used to be but I still consider Hemlock Falls a hidden gem. The trail is beginner-friendly (about 2 miles out-and-back) with lovely creekside scenery on the way to falls.
Tips
- Dogs must be on a leash.
- if you go after some rain, it’s gonna be reeeal muddy!
Cost
$5 parking fee (free with an annual State Park Pass, check your local library if you don’t have one of your own)
4. Watson Mill Bridge State Park
Location
Watson Mill Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the state, spanning 229′ across the South Fork River, and in my opinion, it is the most picturesque covered bridge in the south. (If you’re unfamiliar with the bridge’s history, it’s worth reading about). Follow the nature trail down to the banks for a postcard-worthy view of the bridge and rushing water below. There are spots to put your feet in and at least one good spot to slide down. If you can snag one of the park’s pioneer campsites, you can wade in those waters as well.
Tips
- Drive across the bridge! I developed an appreciation for covered bridges after moving down south, but there there very few that have been maintained this well for you to drive your car across.
- Be careful when you are not trying to slip-n-slide – it can be slippery.
- If you’re in still water, beware of leeches.
- Visit Carlton or Comer, or both! Right outside the park you can search for treasure at Neat Pieces, an antique shop housed in three historic buildings, or turn the other way and hit up Comer, a cute town that’s growing cuter by the minute.
Cost
$5 parking fee (free with an annual State Park Pass, check your local library if you don’t have one of your own)
5. The Broad River Outpost
Location
The Broad River Outpost in Danielsville
Depending on the mood of your kayak crew, you can float down the mild, upper section or you can paddle down the (Class II) white-water lower section. I’m not the most adventurous person and I’ve had a blast doing both, so don’t be intimidated by the idea of rapids. Both routes are very scenic and teeming with awesome wildlife- you’ll see plenty of sunning turtles and usually a heron or two. I’ve yet to see otters in the river but I hear they’re playing out there as well. You can camp the night before you kayak for only $1!
Tips
- Make a reservation in advance (especially if you are a party of more than 2): (706) 795-3242
- Pack a small cooler for your drinks (no glass allowed) and a small dry-bag for anything else.
- Do not get in this water with open wounds. Our rivers are totally safe for recreational use, but they are not the cleanest.
Cost
$30/person
Honorable Mentions
- Slow Water Tubing in Royston
- Blue Hole Falls in Hiawassee
- Poole’s Mill in Cumming
- Edge of the World in Dawsonville
Check out more places to visit in Georgia!
