Minnehaha Falls

Lakemont, Georgia

4.2/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

0.39 miles

Elevation Gain

98 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Matthew Ady

Perhaps the best kept secret in North Georgia, Minnehaha Falls are the perfect side trip for any excursion into the mountains.

Despite their beauty, not many hikers know about Minnehaha Falls. Even more shocking, these are some of the most accessible falls in all of North Georgia. Round trip, the hike to the falls will only take about a half a mile. Hikers can park along the side of the road at the trailhead. Follow the trail along the river, keeping the river to the right. The trail is clearly marked and mostly flat, with some bumpy patches where roots and rocks have sprung up in the path. Depending on their speed, hikers should reach the falls in about five to seven minutes of walking. Turn the last corner, and enjoy the view. Snap a few photos and return the way you came.

Pro tip: arrive early in the morning or late in the evening, when the falls are less frequented, to take some truly stunning long exposures.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Wildlife
Waterfalls

Minnehaha Falls Reviews

Minnehaha Falls is easily one of the most aesthetic and charming waterfalls in Georgia, and my personal favorite in NE Georgia. It is really just a small creek that spreads out beautifully over a series of cascades. There is not much to the hike since it is quite short. I set up my hammock near the base of the falls to photograph them at first light before the crowds got there, but it did not take long for the crowds to start pouring in. If you can go very early or very late in the day to relax and have this waterfall all to yourself, I highly recommend it.

Everyone I have brought here is surprised by the size of this waterfall, it looks much bigger in real life than it does in photos. It only takes 5-10 minutes to walk to from the car so don’t be expecting a hike. Very fun to visit with no planning or supplies required. There is not a swimming area, but if you are looking for waterfalls this one is much bigger than some other popular spots like Panther Creek, without the lengthy hike.

Loved this waterfall. Yeah it is a short trek but the rock formation on which the water cascades down is not something seen very often. Highly recommend.

Easy hike to the base of the falls good secluded sitting area. There is a steep more strenuous trail that leads from the base to the top of the falls

Explorer

12/27/16

This is a pretty short hike. It's super easy to get to and probably great in the summer time since it's so easy to navigate around in the water. The waterfall itself is much larger in scale than I expected so that was neat. I think this would be a nice place for portraits at the right time of day.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Panther Creek Falls

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Hike to the Brasstown Falls