About DeSoto Falls

DeSoto Falls offers a two-for-one waterfall experience in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Dahlonega. The upper falls plunge 90 feet from a sandstone overhang in a dramatic curtain, while the lower falls drop 35 feet in a wide spread across a mossy ledge. Both are accessible via a short trail through a cove forest of rhododendron and mixed hardwood.

The falls are named for Spanish conquistador Hernando DeSoto, who reportedly passed through this area in the 1540s during his expedition through the Southeast. The surrounding forest includes some impressive specimens of yellow poplar and silverbell, and the Frogtown Creek corridor is excellent for spring wildflower viewing.

Trail Highlights

• Two distinct waterfalls — 90-foot upper and 35-foot lower — on a single short trail
• Named for Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto
• Beautiful cove forest with large yellow poplars and silverbells
• Spring wildflowers carpet the creek banks in April and early May
• Located minutes from the gold rush town of Dahlonega

Trail Description

From the DeSoto Falls Recreation Area parking area on US-19, follow the trail along Frogtown Creek. The lower falls appear first on the right, just 0.3 miles from the trailhead — a broad cascade over a mossy ledge.

Continue upstream to the upper falls at 0.7 miles — a dramatically taller 90-foot plunge from a sandstone overhang. The viewing area puts you directly in front of the full drop. Return via the same trail, stopping again at the lower falls.

Tips & What to Bring

• Combine with a gold mine tour in nearby Dahlonega for a full day
• Spring (April-May) offers peak wildflowers and highest water volume
• The recreation area charges a small day-use fee
• The lower falls photograph well from the bridge crossing above
• Fall foliage peaks in mid-October and turns this trail into a palette of gold and red

Getting There

From Dahlonega, GA, take US-19 North approximately 13 miles. The DeSoto Falls Recreation Area entrance is on the right. GPS: 34.7000, -83.8500.