34 Sylvan Mill Falls

Pristine! Sylvan Mill Falls is a wonderful treat for a roadside waterfall. A picturesque scene, straight out of a fairy tale, is perfectly painted here.

See map on 33 Ada-Hi Falls

Height: 50 feet

Beauty rating: Excellent

Distance: Roadside

Difficulty: Easy

Blaze color: No blazes

County: Rabun

Land status: Private property

Trail contact: Sylvan Falls Mill Bed and Breakfast; (706) 746-7138; www.sylvanfallsmill.com

Maps: DeLorme: Georgia Atlas & Gazetteer: Page 16 B2

Finding the trailhead: From the junction of US 441 and US 76 east, drive north on US 441 for 4.25 miles. Turn left onto South Wolffork Road across from the gas station and travel 2.2 miles to a left turn onto Taylor’s Chapel Road. Continue for 0.2 mile to view the falls on the right.

From the junction of US 441 and GA 246, drive south on US 441 for 3.3 miles. Turn right onto South Wolffork Road across from the gas station. (Be sure to travel the full 3.3 miles so that you don’t mistakenly turn onto North Wolffork Road.) After turning onto South Wolffork Road, follow the directions above.

GPS: N34 55.651 / W83 25.239

The Hike

Sylvan Mill Falls can be viewed from the roadside.

The bed-and-breakfast that gives this waterfall a home has lovely gardens that sit at the base of the falls and a wonderful water wheel to the right. At 27 feet, it is one of the largest waterwheels in the United States and has been in operation for 168 years. Once a thriving gristmill, the mill still grinds flour today for use in the B&B.

If you’re in the area, a quick visit to this neighborhood waterfall is worth the trip. Or perhaps you’ll opt to stay at the eco-friendly Sylvan Falls Mill Bed and Breakfast, which proudly uses “local, regional, organic and sustainable” products.

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Sylvan Mill Falls has a working waterwheel and is graced with gardens galore.

The 100-Mile Rule

More and more people in today’s eco-friendly society are becoming aware of their “carbon footprint.” One way to reduce your footprint is to try to live by the “100-Mile Rule,” which encourages people to try to “eat local.” The idea is to purchase only products that are grown, raised, or made within 100 miles of your home.

Local produce is fresher, animals are range fed, and it supports the local economy. You are not only helping the environment but are making an investment in your health as well. While it can be difficult to eat 100 percent local, every little bit helps. Keep this in mind the next time you step into the grocery store.