Raven Cliff Falls Sunny Saturday Hike

This is one of the most popular hikes in Georgia, and for good reason.

Ravens Cliff Falls, which plummets over a 125 foot rock cliff, are a wonder to behold, and the very moderate 2.5 mile hike to the falls (5 miles round trip) in is almost equally as stunning. The path begins as a wide road near the junction of Dodd and Bear Den Creek. Trout fishing abounds here, and it is unusual to see any of the available fishing areas along the creeks empty on a weekend even in the middle of winter. The first 100 yards of the path is essentially a service road for these spots. The trail closely follows Dodd Creek up to the falls. On the path several additional waterfalls add to the pleasure of this trek.

After the first waterfall a change in the trees is obvious. The forest is dominated by hardwoods. Short cascades and riplets of whitewater produce a relaxing gurgle during a significant portion of the hike.

The path is rarely more than 50 feet from the creek, and this eastern facing cove has an abundance of wildlife. Listing all the plants would be time consuming, but more common are:ramp, Jack-in-the-pulpit, geraniums, trout lillies, astors, and abundant clumps of New York ferns.

The approach to the Cliffs is the highlight of the trip. A quick climb and loud noise impart the message of the approaching waterfall. The water rushes through a split in the rocks and splashes down in cascades to the bottom. Typical of high forest falls, water flow is heavy only in the spring, but somehow the way the cliff is shaped makes these falls seem strong most of the year. A short path leads to the top of falls.

Be prepared to climb! We will be having lunch at the TOP of the falls!

Take GA 400 north, which is also US 19.
As you approach Dahlonega, Take GA 60 around Dahlonega where it also becomes US 19 (GA 60 will eventually fork to the left at Porter Springs, but stay on US 19).
Take a right onto US 129 at Turners Corner.
Take a left onto GA Alt 75.
Take a left onto the Richard Russell Hwy, GA 348.
Look for parking lot for Raven Cliffs Falls after about 3.0 miles on GA 348.

(34.71044, -83.78777)