About Helton Creek Falls

Helton Creek Falls is one of those hidden gems that north Georgia waterfall hunters talk about in reverent tones. Tucked into a hemlock hollow in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Blairsville in Union County, the falls cascade in two distinct tiers — a graceful 20-foot upper falls and a spectacular 50-foot lower falls — separated by a short stretch of boulder-filled creek.

The approach trail is quiet and scenic, following Helton Creek through a dense forest of hemlock and rhododendron that creates a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The area sees fewer visitors than the more famous north Georgia falls, making it an excellent choice for hikers seeking a peaceful waterfall experience away from the crowds.

Trail Highlights

• Two-tiered cascade: 20-foot upper and 50-foot lower falls
• Dense hemlock and rhododendron forest creates a cathedral-like canopy
• Light foot traffic makes this a peaceful, uncrowded experience
• Located near the Appalachian Trail corridor in Union County
• Beautiful in all seasons including winter when ice formations appear on the rock face

Trail Description

From the Helton Creek parking area off Helton Creek Road, follow the trail along the creek upstream through dense hemlock forest. The upper falls appear first, dropping 20 feet over a mossy ledge into a shallow pool.

Continue on the trail to the lower falls — a 50-foot plunge into a deeper pool with room to explore around the base. The hemlock canopy overhead creates a green, filtered light perfect for photography. Return the same way.

Tips & What to Bring

• Visit in spring for peak water volume or October for fall foliage under the hemlocks
• The road to the trailhead is unpaved and rough — a high-clearance vehicle helps after rain
• Bring a tripod for long-exposure photography in the dark hemlock understory
• Winter ice formations on the rock face are spectacular and safe to photograph from a distance
• The nearby Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia — consider combining both

Getting There

From Blairsville, GA, take US-19/129 South approximately 6 miles. Turn left on Helton Creek Road and follow approximately 2.5 miles to the parking area at the end. GPS: 34.8500, -83.9500.