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Anna Ruby Falls: A Double Waterfall Delight

Experience the beauty of twin waterfalls in the Chattahoochee National Forest. An easy hike to stunning views near Helen, Georgia.

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Nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Helen, Georgia, Anna Ruby Falls is a stunning natural attraction featuring twin waterfalls cascading side-by-side. The easily accessible, paved trail makes it a perfect family-friendly destination.

A brief summary to Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center & Gift Shop

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (spring, summer, and fall weekends), to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Bring cash for the entry fee, although credit cards are accepted at the visitor center.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the paved but slightly inclined trail.
  • Take advantage of the picnic areas near the visitor center to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
  • Visit the Lion's Eye Trail for a unique sensory experience, especially if you have visual impairments.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Helen, GA, head west on GA-17 N/GA-75 N/N Main St/Unicoi Turnpike. Turn right onto GA-356 E and continue for 1.3 miles. Make a slight left onto Anna Ruby Falls Rd and follow it for approximately 1.4 miles until you reach the Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center. Parking is available at the visitor center. Note that you will drive through Unicoi State Park, but you do not need to pay the Unicoi State Park fee if you are only visiting Anna Ruby Falls. Cost: Parking is free, but there is an entry fee of $5 per person (ages 16+) to visit Anna Ruby Falls.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of GA highway 75 and GA highway 356 near Helen, head north on GA 356 for 1.3 miles and bear left onto Anna Ruby Falls Road. Follow Anna Ruby Falls Road to the Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center. Cost: Walking is free, but there is an entry fee of $5 per person (ages 16+) to visit Anna Ruby Falls.

  • Bus

    Rally provides bus transportation to Anna Ruby Falls from various locations. Check the Rally website or app for specific routes, schedules, and pricing. Cost: Bus fares vary depending on the origin and specific Rally route. Additionally, there is an entry fee of $5 per person (ages 16+) to visit Anna Ruby Falls.

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Discover more about Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center & Gift Shop

Anna Ruby Falls, located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, is a captivating natural landmark where Curtis and York creeks converge, creating a breathtaking double waterfall. Curtis Creek plunges 153 feet, while York Creek descends 50 feet, their waters joining to form Smith Creek, which eventually feeds into Unicoi Lake. The falls were named after Anna Ruby Nichols, the daughter of Captain John H. Nichols, a Civil War-era landowner who is said to have discovered the falls while riding his horse. The area has a rich history, including a period in the early 20th century when the Byrd-Matthews Lumber Company logged the surrounding forest. Evidence of this logging past can still be seen at the base of the falls. In 1925, the U.S. Government acquired the land, incorporating it into the Chattahoochee National Forest and preserving its natural beauty. Today, visitors can enjoy the falls via a 0.4-mile paved trail from the visitor center. The trail is generally considered easy, making it accessible to families, seniors, and those with mobility concerns. Along the way, informational signs provide insights into the area's ecology and history. Two observation decks at the end of the trail offer stunning views of the falls. The visitor center provides restrooms, a gift shop with local crafts, and snacks. The Lion's Eye Trail, a short, accessible path designed for visitors with visual impairments, offers a sensory experience of the forest. Anna Ruby Falls is a popular destination year-round, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of the North Georgia mountains.

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