Full Day Waterfalls Tour in North Georgia with Scenic Hikes

Imagine spending a day wandering through the Appalachian Mountains, chasing waterfalls, and slipping into a Bavarian village—all without breaking the bank or needing to plan every detail yourself. That’s what this Full Day Waterfalls Tour in North Georgia offers. For just $95 per person, you’ll join a small group—max 11 people—and spend about 11 hours exploring five top waterfalls, hiking scenic trails, and soaking in the mountain air.

What we especially love are the stunning views at Amicalola Falls, Georgia’s tallest waterfall, and the chance to get up close with multiple cascades on well-maintained trails. Another highlight is the visit to Helen, a town that feels like a slice of Bavarian Europe right in the Blue Ridge Mountains—a perfect mid-day break for lunch, shopping, or just wandering cobblestone streets.

One potential drawback? The day is packed, and some hikes are moderate in difficulty, so it’s not ideal for those who prefer very flat terrain or have limited mobility. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring some extra cash or plan ahead for your meal. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, want to see diverse waterfalls, and appreciate small-group intimacy for personalized attention.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Visit five picturesque waterfalls including Amicalola, Dukes Creek, and Anna Ruby Falls.
• Scenic Hikes: Trails vary from easy to moderate, offering fantastic views and photo ops.
• Charming Village: Spend time in Helen, a Bavarian-style mountain town perfect for strolling and lunch.
• Small Group: A maximum of 11 travelers ensures a more personal, relaxed experience.
• All-Inclusive Entry Fees: Entrance tickets to parks and falls are included.
• Value for Money: For $95, you get a full day of adventure, beautiful scenery, and a knowledgeable guide.

An In-Depth Look at the Waterfalls and Trails

This tour is designed to showcase North Georgia’s natural beauty through a combination of waterfalls, scenic walks, and mountain views, all accessible within a well-paced, full-day itinerary. Here’s what to expect at each stop.

Amicalola Falls State Park: Georgia’s Tallest Waterfall

Starting at Amicalola Falls, you’ll see a 720-foot cascade, a true marvel that dominates the landscape. The tour features a downhill hike from the top of the falls along a 1-mile trail that includes 600 steps (all downhill), making it approachable for most physically fit hikers. We loved the spectacular views and the chance to get close enough to hear the roar of the water. The ticket is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs here.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the hike was manageable but still felt like a real mountain adventure,” highlighting how this stop balances grandeur with accessibility. The downhill nature makes it a gentle start but still offers enough of a workout to get your blood flowing.

Helton Creek Falls: A Pair of Beautiful Cascades

Next, you’ll hike just 0.6 miles round trip to see two waterfalls on Helton Creek—a 35-foot lower falls and the 75-foot upper falls. The trail is described as easy to moderate, which means it’s suitable if you’re looking for something not overly strenuous but still rewarding.

A fellow traveler shared, “Don’t forget your camera for these falls,” emphasizing the photo opportunities here. Because the walks are relatively short, they’re perfect for a quick nature break, but you’ll still get to marvel at the power and grace of these cascading waters.

Helen: An Alpine Escape

Midday brings a change of pace with a 1.5-hour stop in Helen, a town that perfectly captures the charm of a Bavarian village. Cobblestone streets, alpine architecture, and mountain views make Helen a delightful place to stretch your legs, enjoy lunch, or browse local shops. It’s a favorite for many, with one reviewer noting, “Helen felt like we were transported to Europe for a while,” which is no small feat in Georgia.

Since lunch isn’t included, you might find plenty of local cafes, bakeries, or eateries to choose from. This stop also offers a chance to relax, soak in the scenery, or do a bit of souvenir shopping.

Dukes Creek Falls Trail: Cascades in Motion

The 2-mile round-trip hike to Dukes Creek Falls is described as relatively moderate. You’ll encounter several large waterfalls tumbling at the confluence of Davis Creek and Dukes Creek. The trail features multiple wooden viewing platforms, giving great vantage points for photos and appreciating the waterfalls’ power.

A reviewer said, “This was definitely the highlight for me—the falls are just breathtaking,” reflecting how impressive the scenery can be. The hike provides a gentle challenge but remains accessible, and the payoff is some stunning views.

Anna Ruby Falls: The Grand Finale

Ending the day with Anna Ruby Falls makes for a fitting climax. The paved trail (.9 miles round trip) is easy for most, leading to a double waterfall tumbling 150 feet. The twin falls are a rare sight and worth the gentle walk.

A traveler noted, “The double falls are just beautiful, and we loved how easy the walk was,” confirming that this stop combines natural grandeur with accessibility. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in the mountain air before heading back.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Travelers will appreciate that the air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day comfortable, especially given Georgia’s warm climate. The tour begins at 7:30 am at North Springs MARTA Parking Garage, making it convenient for those staying in Atlanta.

With a maximum of 11 travelers, the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility from the guide. The full 11-hour day means you’ll have ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, but be prepared for a full schedule.

Price and Value

At $95, this tour packs in a lot, including all park entrance fees, bottled water, transportation, and expert guiding. While lunch isn’t included, the cost is still very reasonable for a day filled with stunning scenery and active hikes. Many reviewers feel the value is high, especially considering the chance to see multiple waterfalls in one trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, avid photographers, and those who enjoy moderate hikes with rewarding views. It’s suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, but not ideal if mobility is a concern or if you’re seeking a very relaxing, non-strenuous day. The small group size fosters a friendly, personalized environment that appeals to travelers who appreciate authentic experiences away from large crowds.

Summary

This Full Day Waterfalls Tour in North Georgia offers an excellent way to see some of the region’s most impressive natural attractions with minimal planning. The combination of spectacular waterfalls, scenic hikes, and a charming mountain town makes for a well-rounded day. The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for photos and enjoying the scenery.

Though you’ll need to carry your own lunch or buy food in Helen, the included park entries and bottled water keep costs transparent and straightforward. If you’re someone who revels in outdoor adventures, loves capturing nature’s beauty, and values small-group experiences, this tour is a smart choice.

In short, it’s a great value for the price, especially if you’re keen on exploring North Georgia’s waterfalls and mountain villages in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at the North Springs MARTA Parking Garage located at 7010 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, Sandy Springs, GA, at 7:30 am.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 11 hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have the opportunity to buy lunch in Helen or bring your own snacks.

What is the group size?
The tour limits the group to a maximum of 11 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most hikes are moderate, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Some trails involve steps and uneven terrain.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to parks and waterfalls are included in the $95 price.

What kind of vehicle is used?
An air-conditioned vehicle transports you comfortably between locations.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, manageable hikes, and charming local culture. For those wanting a full day immersed in North Georgia’s waterfalls and mountain scenery without the hassle of planning, it’s a dependable choice that delivers real value and authentic experiences.