Explore Chattahoochee National Forest, GA: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Outdoor Adventures in North Georgia

Located in the scenic heart of North Georgia, the Chattahoochee National Forest is a sprawling natural wonderland filled with lush forests, mountain trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. Covering nearly 750,000 acres, this forest is a favorite destination for hikers, campers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into nature.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Chattahoochee National Forest, how to plan your trip, top trails and waterfalls, and why this forest should be on your Georgia bucket list.

Lush green trails and towering hardwoods in Chattahoochee National Forest offer endless opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration in North Georgia.

What Is the Chattahoochee National Forest?

The Chattahoochee National Forest, combined with the neighboring Oconee National Forest, forms the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, overseen by the USDA Forest Service. While Oconee offers rolling hills and hardwoods, Chattahoochee is where the adventure soars—literally—with mountain ranges, deep river valleys, and iconic peaks like Brasstown Bald.

Located near towns like Hiawassee, Blairsville, Helen, and Dahlonega, this forest makes the perfect base for a North Georgia mountain getaway.

Where Is the Chattahoochee National Forest Located?

The forest spans across multiple North Georgia counties and includes major outdoor destinations like:

• Brasstown Bald – Georgia’s highest peak

• Vogel State Park – Family-friendly camping and hiking

• Blood Mountain Wilderness – A section of the Appalachian Trail

• Tallulah Gorge – A dramatic canyon with waterfall hikes

• Lake Burton & Lake Rabun – For kayaking, fishing, and swimming

  
  

Best Hikes in Chattahoochee National Forest

Whether you're after an easy nature walk or a strenuous summit climb, this forest has it all.

1. Blood Mountain via Byron Reece Trail

• Distance: 4.3 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

• Highlights: Epic views, rock formations, Appalachian Trail access

• Location: Neels Gap near Blairsville

  
  

2. High Shoals Falls Trail

• Distance: 2.6 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Highlights: Two beautiful waterfalls, lush scenery

• Location: Near Hiawassee and Helen

  
  

  

  Rushing waters of High Shoals Falls cascade through the forest—a favorite hiking destination near Hiawassee, GA.

3. Raven Cliffs Falls Trail

• Distance: 5 miles round trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Cascading waterfall through a cliff split

• Location: Near Helen, GA

  
  

4. Lake Russell Trail System

• Distance: Varies by loop

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Highlights: Lakeside views, wildflowers, wildlife

• Location: Mount Airy, GA

  
  

Camping in Chattahoochee National Forest

Looking to stay overnight? The forest offers both developed campgrounds and backcountry sites.

Popular Campgrounds:

• Lake Winfield Scott Campground – Near Suches, quiet and shaded

• Vogel State Park – Full amenities and cabins available

• Upper Chattahoochee River Campground – Remote and scenic

• Deep Hole Recreation Area – Great for trout fishing and solitude

  
  

What to Bring:

• Bear-safe food storage

• Maps or GPS device (cell service is limited)

• Layers for changing mountain weather

• Bug spray, especially in summer

  
  

Waterfalls in Chattahoochee National Forest

This forest is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Georgia, accessible via scenic hikes.

Must-See Waterfalls:

• Anna Ruby Falls – Twin waterfalls near Helen

• Dukes Creek Falls – 150-foot cascading falls with an easy hike

• DeSoto Falls – Peaceful, photogenic falls on a family-friendly trail

• Helton Creek Falls – Double falls near Blairsville, easily accessible

  
  

Tips for Visiting Chattahoochee National Forest

• Check weather conditions, especially in winter or early spring

• Leave no trace—pack out all trash

• Stay on marked trails to preserve fragile ecosystems

• Use bear safety practices in backcountry areas

• Download offline maps—many areas lack signal

  
  

Nearby Towns to Explore

Make your visit even more memorable by stopping in one of these charming North Georgia mountain towns:

Hiawassee

• Access to Lake Chatuge, Bell Mountain, and Brasstown Bald

• Great for boat rentals, dining, and lodging

  
  

Helen

• Bavarian-themed town near Unicoi State Park and multiple waterfalls

  
  

Blairsville

• Trail town near Vogel State Park and Blood Mountain access

  
  

Clayton

• Growing hub for wineries, shops, and easy access to Tallulah Gorge

  
  

Why Chattahoochee National Forest Should Be on Your Georgia Travel List

If you're looking for an authentic outdoor escape, Chattahoochee National Forest delivers. From peaceful forest walks to challenging climbs and roaring waterfalls, the forest showcases the best of North Georgia’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect destination for:

• Family-friendly adventures

• Day trips or weekend getaways

• Photography and wildlife spotting

• Hiking, camping, and waterfall chasing

Located just minutes from our retreat center, the forest also offers a powerful setting for reflection and connection during your retreat. Whether you're joining us for wellness, rest, or personal growth, time spent in Chattahoochee’s wild beauty will deepen and enrich your overall experience.