Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls GA
Georgia's 'Grand Canyon' with a 1,000-ft gorge, six waterfalls, and a thrilling suspension bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure permits.
Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls GA
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure permits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Georgia's 'Grand Canyon' with a 1,000-ft gorge, six waterfalls, and a thrilling suspension bridge.
"The hike down included a lot of steps, but it was well worth the effort for the incredible views."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails, especially on the gorge floor, involve steep climbs and rock scrambling. Good footwear is essential.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous hikes down and back up the gorge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Suspension Bridge
South Rim Trail
A swaying bridge 80 feet above the gorge floor, offering thrilling views and a unique perspective of the waterfalls.
Hurricane Falls
Gorge Floor
The most impressive waterfall in the gorge, accessible via a strenuous hike down over 1,000 steps.
Sliding Rock Trail
Gorge Floor
A natural waterslide down a rock face into a pool, accessible with a limited gorge floor permit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Gorge Floor Permit Early
Stairs are a Serious Workout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails, especially on the gorge floor, involve steep climbs and rock scrambling. Good footwear is essential. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous hikes down and back up the gorge.
⏰ Permits Run Out Early
Gorge floor permits are limited to 100 per day and go fast. Arrive before opening to guarantee yours.
⚠️ Not for Small Children
The steep stairs and rugged terrain can be challenging and unsafe for very young children.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trails, especially on the gorge floor, involve steep climbs and rock scrambling. Good footwear is essential. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the strenuous hikes down and back up the gorge.
⏰ Permits Run Out Early
Gorge floor permits are limited to 100 per day and go fast. Arrive before opening to guarantee yours.
⚠️ Not for Small Children
The steep stairs and rugged terrain can be challenging and unsafe for very young children.
🗺️ Study the Gorge Map
If you get a gorge floor permit, pay attention to the map and instructions provided for navigating the boulders.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tallulah Gorge State Park for its breathtaking views and challenging, rewarding hikes. The suspension bridge and the opportunity to explore the gorge floor are major highlights, offering a unique and unforgettable adventure. While the strenuous nature of the stairs and gorge floor terrain is noted, most agree the effort is well worth the incredible scenery.
"Tallulah Gorge State Park is an amazing adventure! The hike through the beautiful trails and down to the breathtaking waterfall is unforgettable. The stairs add some excitement and challenge, but it’s totally worth the effort for the incredible views. For anyone with health concerns, I’d recommend skipping the stairs, but everyone else should definitely experience this fantastic place!"
Sarath Tata
"I visited Tallulah Gorge State Park and went to the Suspension Bridge from the South Rim trail ( the north trim stairs were closed that day due to fallen tree ) . The views were absolutely breathtaking! The hike down included a lot of steps (around 300 one way), but it was well worth the effort. The bridge gives you an incredible view of the gorge and waterfalls, and the sound of the rushing water makes it even more special. The trails are well marked and the park is clean and well maintained. Be ready for a workout on the way back up, but it’s an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend visiting!"
niki gh
"Absolutely worth getting there early and going through the permit and class procedure. Take notes on the map provided by the instructor. The gorge is breathtaking and making your own way across expanses of boulders is an experience unlike any other in this entire region. Pick a day and hope for good weather. I suppose it would be just as beautiful in cooler temps, but playing in the water is where the true joy is at."
Adam G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tallulah Gorge State Park is located at 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573. It's about a 90-minute to 2-hour drive from Atlanta. 
Public transportation options to Tallulah Falls, GA, are very limited. It is best to drive your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Tallulah Gorge State Park.
The park offers various trails. The North and South Rim trails provide stunning overlooks. For a more immersive experience, the gorge floor hike (requiring a permit) leads to waterfalls and the suspension bridge.
Yes, there are campgrounds available within Tallulah Gorge State Park and in the surrounding areas near Tallulah Falls, GA, offering camping near Tallulah Falls GA.
From Atlanta, take I-85 North to I-985 North, which becomes US-23 North. Continue on US-23 North to GA-15 North, then follow signs for Tallulah Gorge State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tallulah Gorge State Park is $5 per person.
Yes, a 'Gorge Floor' permit is required to access the gorge floor, including the Sliding Rock trail. Only 100 permits are issued daily and they run out quickly, so arrive early.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, the stairs to the gorge floor often close at noon, so plan your visit accordingly if you wish to descend.
Permits for the gorge floor are typically obtained in person at the Visitor's Center on the day of your visit and cannot be reserved in advance.
While some younger children have completed the gorge floor hike, it is a strenuous and challenging trek. It's not recommended for very young children or those with significant health issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the suspension bridge for incredible views, Hurricane Falls on the gorge floor, and the unique natural waterslide at Sliding Rock (permit required). The overlooks on the rim trails are also spectacular. +2
The hike to Hurricane Falls involves descending over 1,000 steep steps and then navigating the gorge floor. It's considered very strenuous, especially the climb back up. +1
The suspension bridge sways 80 feet above the gorge floor, which can be unnerving for some. However, many find it manageable and a thrilling part of the experience. +1
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hikes can be long and challenging.
Yes, Tallulah Gorge State Park features six waterfalls, including Hurricane Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and others visible from the rim and gorge floor trails.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The suspension bridge offers iconic shots looking down into the gorge. The overlooks on the North and South Rim trails provide panoramic views. The gorge floor itself offers unique perspectives of the waterfalls and rock formations.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the mist rising from the falls and avoiding harsh midday sun. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Georgia State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the park's official regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge and the falls. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the waterfalls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
The overlooks along the rim trails offer excellent vantage points. The suspension bridge itself is a prime spot. For those who hike to the gorge floor, the areas around Hurricane Falls and Sliding Rock provide unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the hike down to the gorge floor, with its over 1,000 steep steps, is very strenuous and may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. If you do venture down, consider the permit process for the gorge floor carefully. Some families have successfully navigated it with older children, but it requires careful planning and preparation. For a less intense experience, focus on the overlooks and the visitor center, which offers historical information about the area.
💰 Budget Travelers
The park offers incredible natural beauty and challenging hikes that provide a full day of adventure without breaking the bank. Pack your own snacks and water to save on food costs within the park. While the gorge floor permit is free, it's limited, so arriving early is key. The main attractions, like the suspension bridge and rim overlooks, are accessible with the standard park entry fee. This makes it a fantastic destination for those looking for a high-value outdoor experience.
💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
Consider timing your visit for the fall to enjoy the stunning foliage, or if you're truly seeking thrills, plan around a whitewater release event for a spectacular display of nature's power.
+1 The park provides ample opportunities for memorable shared experiences and stunning photo opportunities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Gorge Floor Hike
This challenging terrain is what makes the gorge floor hike so rewarding. The sound of the rushing water intensifies, and the sheer scale of the gorge becomes apparent. Popular destinations on the gorge floor include the base of Hurricane Falls and the natural waterslide at Sliding Rock. Proper footwear, plenty of water, and a good sense of balance are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
It's important to note that the gorge floor hike is not for everyone. Those with mobility issues or health concerns should reconsider. However, for adventurous hikers seeking an unforgettable experience and breathtaking close-up views of the waterfalls, the gorge floor hike is an absolute must-do. Remember to heed all park signage and instructions from rangers.
Navigating the Suspension Bridge
While the bridge does sway, many visitors find it to be a manageable and exhilarating part of their visit. The construction, dating back to 1998, is robust, but the movement adds to the adventure. It's a popular spot for photos, so be prepared for others to be crossing as well. The views from the bridge are spectacular, with the roar of the water and the dramatic cliffs creating a memorable scene.
Accessing the suspension bridge typically involves hiking down the South Rim Trail, which includes a significant number of stairs. The effort is well worth the reward of standing on the bridge and taking in the full grandeur of Tallulah Gorge. It's a highlight for many visitors and a testament to the park's natural beauty and adventurous spirit.
The Whitewater Release Event
During these events, the park becomes a hub of activity, with spectators gathering at the overlooks to witness the thrilling spectacle of boaters navigating the rapids. The increased water flow creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring display of nature's power. It's a unique opportunity to see the gorge in a completely different, more dynamic state.
It's crucial to check the park's schedule for these whitewater release dates, as they are not frequent. These events can draw large crowds, so plan your visit accordingly if you wish to attend. The energy and excitement during a whitewater release are palpable, making it a memorable experience for both participants and observers.
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