Discover Panther Creek Falls – Georgia’s most breathtaking waterfall

Nothing beats immersing yourself in nature, whether it’s on a warm summer afternoon or a crisp fall morning. Although the state of Georgia offers a wealth of outdoor activities for everyone, we recommend a hike to Panther Creek Falls.

This series of waterfalls is one of the highlights of North Georgia. It is located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. If you’re looking for an amazing place in Georgia to enjoy the great outdoors, check out the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

These lands are rich in natural splendor, flora, fauna and culture, with approximately 867,000 acres spread across 25 counties. Here you will discover hundreds of kilometers of babbling creeks and rivers, approximately 850 kilometers of dirt and paved trails and endless campsites, restaurants and other outdoor activity opportunities.

The walk to Panther Creek Falls requires moderate work, but the view is worth the hike! Along the trails you’ll see a cluster of flowing waterfalls in a stunning woodland setting framed by majestic trees and moss-covered rocks.

Where is Panther Creek Falls?

Located east of Turnerville in Clarksville, Georgia, Panther Creek awaits your visit. It’s about a two-hour drive from Atlanta, and visitors should be ready to put on their walking shoes to head to the falls!

If you want to see the falls, get there early. The expedition begins across from the Panther Creek Picnic Area on the side of Historic 441.

The first 3.5 miles

The footpath on the east side of the road quickly cuts through a power line clearing before undercutting Highway 441. In summer you can discover delicious berries in these open areas.

The route stays on the creek for most of the first part of the hike as it winds around the hills. It gradually begins to descend towards the lake and the first pedestrian bridge. This is about half the time.

There are a number of campsites along this first stretch, and many are closer to the base of the cascading falls. When it crosses a clearing and offers a view of the creek far below, the path begins to climb.

The sheer beauty of Panther Creek Falls draws so many people that erosion has affected some of the hiking trails. New hiking trails have been created so that visitors can safely reach the beautiful outdoor oasis.

One of the most scenic areas is around the 1.5 mile mark. Here begins the path down to slow-flowing streams that will make you feel as if you are in a fairy tale.

There is a wooden bridge, some campsites and lots of flora and fauna near the creeks, making it a great rest stop. As you approach the two mile mark the trail begins to climb again, climbing over the creek and over another bridge.

For the remainder of the hike, visitors can expect the trail to become quite narrow and change elevation rapidly. That being said, take your time. Panther Creek Falls will be waiting for you there. There’s no need to sprain your ankle or chafe your knee while riding!

How do you know you’re getting close to the falls? For one, you will begin to hear the rushing of the water. It’s almost tempting as the water tumbles down the mossy cliffs. Near the huge cascade below, the trail passes over several large, carved granite boulders and various other tributaries.

How far is the hike to Panther Creek Falls?

After completing the three-and-a-half mile journey to the falls and enjoying some time there, you’ll likely return the same way. This will make the entire trip total about seven miles.

You can take other trails that make the entire hike about 12 miles long. Although the western half of the trail is easier to traverse, some visitors have commented that the eastern half has poorly maintained sections of trail.

Does it cost money to visit Panther Creek Falls?

Visitors arriving by car can expect a $4 fee for an all-day parking pass. This fee also covers use of the picnic areas and restrooms. We recommend investing in quality hiking shoes and bringing reusable water bottles to stay hydrated during the Georgia summer heat!

Can you swim in Panther Creek Falls?

You will definitely understand why this is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in North Georgia once you see the waterfall swimming hole. Towering Panther Creek Falls cascades over moss-covered rocks into a large, swimmable pool below.

The main falls are huge and magnificent despite only being 40 feet tall. Swimming in the pool at the base is very enjoyable and the bottom of the falls can be explored. Few people venture past the falls on the route that stretches into Yonah Dam Road and the South Carolina border.

If you have the courage to dive into the cascades, this is the ideal hike for a hot summer day. If you go for a swim, remember that submerged rocks protrude from the ledge near the falls.

Another thing to watch out for is that the water is relatively shallow. This is a beautiful area for wading, but you probably won’t be able to dive or swim very deep. Jumping from the various cascades is forbidden and extremely dangerous.

We hope you will have an incredible time if you decide to visit this fascinating piece of nature. The relatively short hike makes this a great option for beginners and younger hikers!

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