10 Helton Creek Falls
Gorgeous! Helton Creek is a wonderful place to spend the day. This very short and easy trail takes you to two beautiful waterfalls. The Upper Falls is a popular hangout and swimming hole for the locals. So if its seclusion you seek, I suggest visiting these falls on a weekday to avoid the heavy traffic of weekend picnickers.
Height: Lower Falls, 30 feet; Upper Falls, 50 feet
Distance: 0.4 mile out and back
Trail surface: Hard-packed dirt
Approximate hiking time: 20 minutes
Blaze color: No blazes
County: Union
Land status: National forest
Trail contact: Chattahoochee National Forest, Chattooga Ranger District; (706) 754-6221; www.fs.fed.us Maps: DeLorme: Georgia Atlas & Gazetteer: Page 15 D8
Finding the trailhead: From the junction of US 129 and GA 180 east, drive south on US 129 for 3.7 miles. Turn left onto Helton Creek Road at the sign for Helton Creek Falls and travel 2.2 miles to a large parking area on your right.
From the junction of US 129 and US 19 at Turner’s Corner, drive north on US 129 for 9.2 miles. Turn right onto Helton Creek Road and follow the directions above.
The trailhead is located at the northwest end of the parking lot. GPS: N34 45.198 / W83 53.669
The Hike
Make your way down the log steps. The easily followed trail then bends left, crosses a small wooden footbridge, and leads to a set of stairs on the left that descend to the Lower Falls of Helton Creek. Flat rocks are plentiful, and peaceful creek views greet you at the base of this beauty.
From the Lower Falls get back on the main trail and continue a very short distance farther to the taller, more powerful, Upper Falls of Helton Creek. If you’re brave enough to swim in the chilly creek waters, this is a wonderful place to do so. You can swim right under the strong flow of the falls at this one.
Located near Vogel State Park and in the heart of Union County, Helton Creek Falls sits in a prime location. The area offers hiking trails, mountain biking, and horseback riding for the outdoor enthusiast. If you prefer tamer activities, you could go shopping in Helen, check out the antiquing in Hiawassee, or try your hand at gem mining in the nearby town of Dahlonega. This area has it all.
Miles and Directions
0.0From the trailhead, head down the steps and hike north-northwest on the narrow trail as it bends around and into the forest.
0.1Come to a set of stairs on the left that leads east and down to the base of Helton Creek’s Lower Falls (N34 45.193 / W83 53.712). Return to the main trail, continuing south on the narrow path.
0.2Arrive at an observation deck at the base of the Upper Falls of Helton Creek (N34 45.162 / W83 53.744). Return the way you came.
0.4Arrive back at the trailhead.
The short hike to Upper Helton Creek Falls sees a lot of traffic, but it’s worth sharing.