Amicalola Falls State Park Georgia
Georgia's tallest waterfall, offering a challenging stair climb and stunning mountain views. A gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Amicalola Falls State Park Georgia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Georgia's tallest waterfall, offering a challenging stair climb and stunning mountain views. A gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
"Wow, what an incredible hike! The falls were breathtaking, and the weather was just perfect."
🚗 Drive or Hike?
Choose to drive to the top for views or tackle the 400+ stairs for a workout. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
A small $5 parking fee per car is required for entry. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Amicalola Falls
Main waterfall
Georgia's tallest waterfall at 729 feet, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
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The Staircase Challenge
Base to top of falls
A strenuous but rewarding climb of over 400 steps alongside the falls for unparalleled perspectives.
Appalachian Trail Southern Terminus
Top of the falls
The southernmost point of the iconic Appalachian Trail is marked here, a must-see for hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb (or Drive!)
Many visitors opt to drive to the top for the panoramic views. Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Hike?
Choose to drive to the top for views or tackle the 400+ stairs for a workout. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
A small $5 parking fee per car is required for entry. :moneybag:
📸 Long Exposure Photography
Ideal spot for practicing long exposure shots of the waterfall. :camerawithflash:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially if you plan to climb the stairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Hike?
Choose to drive to the top for views or tackle the 400+ stairs for a workout. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
A small $5 parking fee per car is required for entry. :moneybag:
📸 Long Exposure Photography
Ideal spot for practicing long exposure shots of the waterfall. :camerawithflash:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially if you plan to climb the stairs.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for navigating the stairs and trails comfortably.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Amicalola Falls, calling it a must-visit for its stunning cascade and the rewarding challenge of the stair climb. Many appreciate the scenic drive and the opportunity for photography, with some enjoying the convenience of the on-site restaurant. While the stairs are a significant workout, the views from the top are consistently praised.
"Great! We drove to the top and hiked down, then the grandparents met us at the bottom so we didn't have to climb back up 🤣
The only issue we had was limited parking, but we went over the Thanksgiving break so it may have been busier than normal. The bath house was clean, the trail was clear and well-maintained, and the views were beautiful. Highly recommend doing the West falls hike if you can handle it, and honestly almost anyone can do it if you take your time. The west ridge access is doable even for older or disabled folks, which gets you to the bottom of the falls. The top of the falls is drivable."
Ethan Green
"We enjoyed a few hours hiking up and down. It’s steeper than expected, seeing it was advertised as wheelchair accessible! Retired OT here, and I can attest the slope would not qualify as wheelchair safe. However, this Florida senior who has joint issues, and vital capacity —well, shall we just say the entire ole gal just ain’t what she used to be?—issues, it was doable but with frequent rest breaks, and I only made it to the overlook not to the best view. However, we got back to the car and drove to the top, which has excellent views. The restaurant was closed at that time and the outdoor dining area crowded, but there’s still ample room on the hill behind the lodge to take in the lovely vistas."
Joan Warren
"Been to this beautiful park many many times. Have hiked the Appalachian Approach Trail. Love the falls. The only negative was the website showed the Visitors Center open until 6:00pm on Fridays, but they closed at 5:00 pm. Not sure if the other days are correct. I witnessed several visitors being turned away. They all were not very happy. Fortunately, I was able to get in and purchase some souvenirs, before they locked the doors and started mopping the floors. I would have been pretty ticked-off, if they had already been closed, but showed on-line they were open. I did notice that there were no posted hours on the doors. I do have to say though, it is one of the nicest Visitors Centers I have been in. They even have a cafe. Not sure why they were turning away potential customers, if their website shows a later closure time. If they have changed their hours, they need to change the time on the website. Smartphones are how we operate in today's world, so websites should accordingly, be accurate and kept up-to-date. Apart from that, I loved my visit."
doug fortner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amicalola Falls State Park is approximately 1.5 hours north of Atlanta, making it a popular day trip destination.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the park. The drive itself is scenic, especially through the North Georgia mountains.
Public transportation options are very limited. Renting a car or using a ride-sharing service from nearby towns is generally recommended.
Yes, it's possible to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail from Amicalola Falls towards Springer Mountain. However, be prepared for a strenuous hike and plan for transportation at your endpoint.
Absolutely! The drive through the North Georgia mountains offers beautiful views, particularly during the fall foliage season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 parking fee per vehicle to enter the park.
No, advance ticket purchase is not typically required. You pay the parking fee upon arrival.
The park is generally open daily from morning until evening. It's always a good idea to check the official Georgia State Parks website for the most current hours.
While there aren't specific discounts mentioned frequently, the $5 parking fee is considered very reasonable for the experience.
Dogs are generally allowed in Amicalola Falls State Park but must be kept on a leash. Always check the park's specific pet policy before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There are approximately 425 steps to the bridge overlooking the falls, and an additional 600+ steps to reach the very top.
The stair climb is considered strenuous due to the elevation and number of steps. Many find it challenging but rewarding.
Yes, you can drive to the top of the falls and access observation points with minimal walking.
Besides hiking, you can enjoy scenic drives, photography, and explore the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Lodging options like cabins and campsites are also available.
Yes, families can enjoy the park. Driving to the top offers easier access, and the lower trails are manageable. The stairs can be challenging for very young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the top of the falls that offers meals with stunning views.
The restaurant typically serves American cuisine, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Picnic areas are available, so you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
The closest dining options are in Dawsonville, GA, which is about a 20-30 minute drive from the park.
Many visitors enjoy the convenience and the spectacular views from the restaurant, though some reviews suggest it can be pricey.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the falls, the bridge overlooking the cascade, and the summit offer incredible photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The flowing water is perfect for capturing silky smooth long exposure shots.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow on the falls.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check park regulations before flying.
Bring a tripod for long exposures, consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water, and experiment with different angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park offers a chance for kids to experience nature, see a magnificent waterfall, and even touch the start of the Appalachian Trail. +1Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, and plan for breaks. The welcome center provides facilities, and the restaurant at the top offers a convenient spot for a meal with a view.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
The opportunity to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail adds an extra layer of adventure. Many solo visitors appreciate the chance for quiet contemplation and photography, especially during weekdays when crowds are thinner.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the main cascade, the surrounding forest and mountain vistas offer diverse photographic opportunities. Visiting during the fall foliage season can yield spectacular shots of vibrant colors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Amicalola Falls Stair Climb: A Traveler's Guide
Travelers often describe it as nature's StairMaster, with sore legs being a common, yet worthwhile, consequence. For those planning to tackle the stairs, it's crucial to wear comfortable, supportive footwear and bring plenty of water.
The climb offers unique perspectives of the waterfall as you ascend, with various observation points along the way. Remember that Georgia's weather can be unpredictable. A hike in January will feel very different from one in June.
Experiencing Amicalola Falls: Beyond the Waterfall
The park provides a beautiful natural setting for various activities, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. The park is well-equipped for visitors, with amenities like restrooms and a welcome center, which staff are noted for being friendly and helpful.
Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful nature retreat, or a picturesque spot for photography, Amicalola Falls State Park provides a diverse range of experiences. The combination of the stunning waterfall, the Appalachian Trail connection, and the surrounding natural beauty makes it a memorable destination.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit