
Long Creek Falls
Discover the magic of Long Creek Falls, where you can walk behind a stunning cascade and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Long Creek Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magic of Long Creek Falls, where you can walk behind a stunning cascade and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
"Absolutely gorgeous and very much worth the trip!"

Gravel Road Savvy
Forest Service roads can be rough. Drive slowly and be mindful of potholes. Most cars can manage in dry weather. :car:
Trailhead Signage
The sign for the falls can be small and easy to miss. Look for it tied to a tree at the three-way intersection. :pushpin:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Waterfall
End of the main trail
A stunning cascade where you can often walk behind the water, offering a unique and refreshing perspective. Perfect for photos!

Multi-Stage Falls
Along the creek
Explore the series of smaller, picturesque falls and pools that lead up to the main attraction. Each stage offers its own charm.

Behind the Curtain
Directly behind the main falls
Experience the exhilarating sensation of standing behind the curtain of water. A truly immersive and memorable moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road to the Falls
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Gravel Road Savvy
Forest Service roads can be rough. Drive slowly and be mindful of potholes. Most cars can manage in dry weather. :car:
Trailhead Signage
The sign for the falls can be small and easy to miss. Look for it tied to a tree at the three-way intersection. :pushpin:
Walk Behind the Falls
Don't miss the chance to walk behind the main waterfall – it's a highlight! Bring a waterproof bag for your phone. :camerawithflash:
Picnic Spot
Pack a picnic! While official facilities are scarce, the riverbanks offer lovely spots to relax and eat. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Gravel Road Savvy
Forest Service roads can be rough. Drive slowly and be mindful of potholes. Most cars can manage in dry weather. :car:
Trailhead Signage
The sign for the falls can be small and easy to miss. Look for it tied to a tree at the three-way intersection. :pushpin:
Walk Behind the Falls
Don't miss the chance to walk behind the main waterfall – it's a highlight! Bring a waterproof bag for your phone. :camerawithflash:
Picnic Spot
Pack a picnic! While official facilities are scarce, the riverbanks offer lovely spots to relax and eat. :sandwich:
Cool Dip
If the weather is warm, consider taking a dip in the water at the base of the falls. It's incredibly refreshing! :tropical_fish:
Footwear Choice
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, especially if you plan to get close to the falls or walk behind them. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Long Creek Falls for its stunning beauty and the unique experience of walking behind the waterfall. The relatively easy hike makes it accessible for many, and the opportunity to cool off in the water during warmer months is a major draw. Some travelers note that the gravel road access can be challenging, and signage can be easy to miss, but the overall consensus is that the falls are well worth the journey.
"Fun 5 mile drive down a gravel FS road to get to the trail head. Road was in good shape and the hike was 1.9 mile round trip with a beautiful fall at the end. Very nice place to hang out and have a picnic and watch the stream / waterfall for a while."
Joel H
"I absolutely loved the waterfall here!
My family and I came here on a Tuesday afternoon in July, which was pretty busy.
The hike was pretty easy, just a half mile walk uphill to the falls. I really enjoyed the fact that you can touch the waterfall and even get in the water to cool down. It was absolutely gorgeous and very much worth the trip!"
Kaitlin Brooks
"The Forest service road to the trailhead has some pretty sketchy spots. But I made it in my 2012 Nissan Rogue so a Jeep is not necessary.
The falls are in several stages, and quite pretty. When you come to the three-way trail intersection it's easy to miss the sign to the falls but it's tied to a tree over to the left."
Chip Sullivan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Long Creek Falls is accessed via Forest Service roads. The drive involves gravel roads with potential potholes, so drive cautiously. While many visitors report success in standard vehicles, an SUV or vehicle with higher clearance can provide a smoother ride. Allow extra time for the drive, as it can take longer than expected.
Generally, a 4x4 or Jeep is not necessary for Long Creek Falls in normal dry weather. Visitors have successfully reached the trailhead in sedans and SUVs. However, if there has been recent heavy rain, conditions might be more challenging.
The road to the Long Creek Falls trailhead is a gravel Forest Service road. It can be bumpy with several potholes, especially the latter sections. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings.
The drive time can vary significantly depending on your starting point and road conditions. The last 6-7 miles are dirt/gravel and can take longer than anticipated due to the road's condition. Plan for at least an extra 30-60 minutes for this final stretch.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead for Long Creek Falls. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended for the best parking spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small parking fee of $3 per car to access Long Creek Falls. You can typically pay using a credit card machine at the trailhead.
Long Creek Falls is a natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific operating hours posted, but it's best to visit when there is sufficient daylight for hiking and enjoying the falls.
No, tickets are not required in advance for Long Creek Falls. You pay a parking fee upon arrival.
Long Creek Falls is generally open year-round. However, access may be limited during severe winter weather conditions due to road closures or snow. It's always a good idea to check local conditions before your visit.
Yes, there is a parking fee of $3 per vehicle. This fee helps maintain the area and its facilities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Long Creek Falls is generally considered easy to moderate. It's about a 1-mile round trip, with some uphill sections on the way to the falls. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery.
Yes, you can swim at Long Creek Falls, especially during warmer months. The water can be cool, but it's a popular spot to cool off. Be cautious of slippery rocks and currents.
Long Creek Falls is a great destination for families. The hike is relatively short and manageable for most ages, and the opportunity to get close to the waterfall and even swim is a big hit with kids.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be damp and slippery near the falls. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, and consider a waterproof bag for electronics.
Restroom facilities at Long Creek Falls are limited or may not be available. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at Long Creek Falls. It's best to pack a picnic to enjoy by the falls or plan to eat in a nearby town like Blue Ridge, GA, which offers various restaurants.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Long Creek Falls. While there aren't dedicated picnic tables, the riverbanks provide scenic spots to enjoy your meal.
The immediate area around Long Creek Falls is primarily natural forest. For a wider selection of food, you'll need to drive to nearby towns. Blue Ridge, GA, is a popular option with many restaurants and cafes.
It is highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks to Long Creek Falls, as dining facilities are scarce. This ensures you have sustenance for your visit and can enjoy a meal amidst nature.
No, there are no cafes or snack bars located directly at Long Creek Falls. It's a natural attraction, so plan to bring all your own food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are at the base of the main waterfall, offering views of the cascade and the opportunity to capture people walking behind it. The multi-stage falls also provide beautiful compositions.
Yes, getting behind the waterfall is a signature experience and offers unique photographic opportunities. Be prepared for mist and spray, and use a waterproof bag for your camera or phone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. However, the falls are beautiful at any time of day. Consider the mist factor when planning your shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet rocks. Most importantly, a waterproof case or bag for your camera is essential due to the spray.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Long Creek Falls. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trip & Scenic Drive Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Forest Service Roads
Allowing extra travel time is crucial. What might look like a short distance on a map can take significantly longer due to the road's condition. This part of the journey is part of the experience, offering a sense of remoteness and anticipation before you even reach the trailhead.
Experiencing the Waterfall Up Close
Beyond the main cascade, the creek features several smaller, tiered falls and pools. Exploring these can be just as rewarding, offering quieter spots to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. The trail itself is generally well-maintained and relatively short, making it accessible for families and those with moderate fitness levels. If the weather is warm, the pools at the base of the falls are a popular spot for a refreshing dip, though caution is advised due to slippery rocks.
Best Times for a Memorable Visit
Summer afternoons can be quite busy as people flock to cool off in the water. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere and don't mind company, this is a great time. However, for a more serene visit, aim for earlier in the day. Fall foliage season transforms the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains into a spectacular display of color, making Long Creek Falls an even more breathtaking destination. Be aware that this is a popular time, so expect more visitors.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit