
Anna Ruby Falls
A stunning 153-foot double waterfall in Georgia's Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, accessible via a beautiful paved trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Anna Ruby Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 153-foot double waterfall in Georgia's Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, accessible via a beautiful paved trail.
"Beautiful waterfall and a fairly easy hike, even with dogs!"

🚗 Parking & Admission
Arrive early for parking. Fee is $5 per person (16+). Military ID gets free parking.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is easy but can be slick after rain. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Twin Falls
Main viewing platforms
Witness the majestic 153-foot double waterfall, a breathtaking spectacle of nature's power.

Paved Scenic Trail
Trailhead to falls
An accessible 0.4-mile paved path winds through lush forest, perfect for all ages and abilities.

Smith Creek Boardwalk
Along the trail
Enjoy the serene beauty of the forest and the gentle sounds of Smith Creek on this picturesque walk.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Weather
Admission & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Admission
Arrive early for parking. Fee is $5 per person (16+). Military ID gets free parking.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is easy but can be slick after rain. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail! :dog:
📸 Capture the Moment
The lower viewing platform offers a better view of the top of the falls. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Admission
Arrive early for parking. Fee is $5 per person (16+). Military ID gets free parking.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail is easy but can be slick after rain. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail! :dog:
📸 Capture the Moment
The lower viewing platform offers a better view of the top of the falls. :camerawithflash:
💧 Go After Rain
The falls are most impressive with higher water flow after recent rainfall. :droplet:
👨👩👧👦 Kid & Stroller Friendly
The paved, 0.4-mile trail is easy for kids and strollers. :baby_chick:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Anna Ruby Falls for its breathtaking beauty and accessible, paved trail, making it a hit with families and dog owners alike. While the falls are stunning, be prepared for crowds on weekends and during peak seasons, and note the per-person admission fee for adults.
"Beautiful waterfall and a fairly easy hike. We took our Yorkie and only had to carry her on the steepest section. While one hard uphill part that older people had to use a walking stick, I could take my 84 year old dad on it."
Michael Cooper
"Even when I started to rain, we still had a great time!
There are two lookout points. The lower one gives a better view of the top, since branches block it on the higher one.
But the higher lookout allows you to get closer.
Excellent gift shop.
Plenty of parking.
$5 per person over the age of 15 to enter."
Maria R
"Awesome falls, but VERY busy on a weekend during Oktoberfest and Columbus Day weekend. If you’re looking to get away to the quiet parts of nature, this is not it. Very EASY path, paved all the way to the falls and with a rail to help too. Lots of people also had their dogs. There are 2 areas to take pictures and you’ll need to wait some time to get into a good spot with nobody else in the camera shot. Parking was free for military with ID."
Benjamin Watson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anna Ruby Falls is conveniently located about 10-15 minutes from downtown Helen, Georgia. The drive is scenic and straightforward, taking you into the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. Many visitors find it an easy addition to a trip to Helen.
From Helen, GA, take GA-75 N and turn right onto GA-356 E. Continue on GA-356 E, which will lead you to the entrance of the falls area. The road is well-marked and part of the scenic drive through the national forest.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the visitor area. However, it can fill up quickly on busy weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended for the best parking spots.
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. It is best to drive your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Anna Ruby Falls.
The road leading to Anna Ruby Falls is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance, especially during winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a per-person admission fee of $5.00 for visitors aged 16 and older. Children 15 and under are admitted for free. Military personnel with ID receive free parking.
Anna Ruby Falls typically closes around 4 PM. It's advisable to arrive by 9 AM to allow ample time to enjoy the falls and the trail without feeling rushed.
Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival at the visitor area. Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always wise to check the official park website for any updates or special advisories.
While there is an admission fee per person, parking itself is generally included or free, with the exception of military personnel who receive free parking with ID.
Payment methods can vary, but it's recommended to have cash on hand for admission fees, especially if you're visiting during off-peak hours or if card systems are temporarily unavailable.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail to Anna Ruby Falls is approximately 0.4 miles one way, making it a 0.8-mile round trip. It's a relatively short and manageable hike for most visitors.
The trail is paved and considered easy to moderate. While mostly gentle, there are some steeper inclines, particularly towards the falls. It's suitable for most fitness levels and ages.
Yes, Anna Ruby Falls is dog-friendly! Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail, making it a great spot for pet owners.
The paved nature of the trail makes it largely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some steeper sections might require assistance. It's considered stroller-friendly.
Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and near the trailhead, providing convenience for visitors before or after their hike.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
There are several viewing platforms offering different perspectives of the twin falls. The lower platform provides a clearer view of the top of the falls, while the higher one allows you to get closer.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, leading to better photographic opportunities. However, the falls are beautiful at any time of day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check specific park regulations before flying a drone.
For capturing the silky smooth effect of falling water, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended to keep your camera steady. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families also appreciate that the area is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry companions along for the adventure. The natural beauty and the sound of the falls provide an engaging sensory experience for children. It's a great way to introduce kids to the wonders of nature in a safe and accessible environment.
🚶♀️ Active Seniors & Those with Mobility Concerns
The relatively short length of the trail (0.8 miles round trip) means you can enjoy the stunning waterfall without an overly strenuous effort. The viewing platforms provide excellent vantage points to appreciate the falls' beauty. It's advisable to visit during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and potential congestion on the path.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and be mindful of other visitors. While the trail is paved, it can be slick after rain, so ensure your dog has good traction as well. It's a wonderful opportunity for both you and your pet to enjoy the natural beauty of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Formation of Anna Ruby Falls
The formation of these falls is a testament to the erosive power of water over millennia. As the creeks carved their paths through the ancient rock formations of the Appalachian Mountains, they created the dramatic drops that we see today. The surrounding landscape, characterized by lush forests and rolling hills, provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the natural beauty of the falls. Visitors often remark on the refreshing mist and the soothing sound of the water, which are integral parts of the experience.
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail itself is a testament to thoughtful park management, designed to be accessible while preserving the natural environment. The paved path ensures that more people can experience the falls, and the well-maintained viewing platforms offer safe and spectacular vantage points. This accessibility, combined with the sheer natural beauty, makes Anna Ruby Falls a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Navigating the Anna Ruby Falls Trail
While the trail is paved, it's important to note that there are some steeper inclines, particularly as you approach the falls themselves. This means that while it's generally easy, some visitors, especially those with mobility challenges or older individuals, might find these sections a bit more demanding. Wearing appropriate footwear with good grip is highly recommended, especially if the ground is wet from recent rain, as the path can become slick.
Along the trail, you'll find opportunities to appreciate the surrounding forest and the gentle flow of Smith Creek. There are also multiple viewing platforms near the falls, offering different perspectives. Redditors suggest that the lower platform might offer a better view of the top of the falls, as branches can sometimes obstruct the view from higher vantage points. The overall experience is one of immersion in nature, with the sound of the water growing louder as you get closer to the magnificent double waterfall.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit