Anna Ruby Falls: A Double Waterfall Delight

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.