The Visitor Center at Amicalola Falls State Park is open Sunday through Thursday from 8am to 5pm, and Friday and Saturday from 8am to 6pm.
The entrance fee at Amicalola Falls State Park is $5 per vehicle for a daily pass. You can also purchase a $50 annual park pass for frequent visits.
From Atlanta: I-75 N → I-575 N → GA-515 through Jasper → Right on GA-53 E → Left on GA-183 N → Right on GA-52 E → Follow signs to Amicalola Falls State Park Road. Driving is the easiest and most direct route.
Parking is available near the visitor center for over 50 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and smaller RVs. There is a $5 daily parking fee or an annual pass. Overnight parking is permitted with registration at the visitor center. Larger RVs may not fit due to space constraints.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tucked into the North Georgia mountains, Amicalola Falls State Park is a picturesque escape boasting Georgia’s tallest waterfall at 729 feet, and over 12 miles of hiking trails leading through Appalachian foothills. The park’s name—Cherokee for “tumbling waters”—reflects its scenic cascade and tranquil ambiance. It’s a favorite base for Appalachian Trail adventurers and offers an array of activities including hiking, ziplining, fishing, and educational programs. With onsite lodging, cabins, and campgrounds, it’s a well-rounded retreat for everyone from casual day-trippers to seasoned hikers.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.3
- Annual visitors
- 350 000
- Established year
- 1940
Top 3 Facts about Amicalola Falls State Park
The main part of the waterfall is 429 meters in height, followed by a gently sloping run that drops an additional 85 meters, according to the World Waterfall Database. This unique cascade is part of a larger drop of 222 meters.
The park spans 829 acres, blending wilderness, recreational areas, and interpretive programming.
Offers 12+ miles of hiking trails for all skill levels, including access to the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Lodging and campsites fill quickly on weekends and during leaf season. Reserve early online. Check trail status and weather before hiking.
Pack Appropriately
Wear hiking shoes with good grip, and pack water, sunscreen, insect repellent (spring–fall), and warm layers in winter.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife respectfully; do not feed animals and stay on marked trails to protect native flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Check the GA State Parks website for weather updates, waterfall flow, program schedules, and trail closures.
Seasons
In spring, the park bursts into life with wildflowers and budding trees. You’ll enjoy mild weather, making it ideal for hiking up to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The days are getting longer, too, so you’ve got more daylight to explore.
Ah, summer! With the sun beaming down, it’s a great time for ziplining adventures through the lush canopy or fishing in the park’s streams. It gets quite warm, so pack plenty of water and sunscreen for those bright days.
The fall is truly special, as the park is draped in red, orange, and yellow fall colors – a feast for the eyes. Amicalola Falls is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest, which provides a picturesque backdrop for those Instagram-worthy moments. Crisp air and fewer crowds make hiking especially enjoyable.
Don’t underestimate winter! It’s quieter, offering a serenity that you might fall in love with. Although it’s chilly and some paths may be closed, the park transforms into a peaceful winter wonderland. Just be ready for colder weather, and remember that winter sports are off the table here.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Amicalola Falls State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to Amicalola Falls State Park is Dawsonville, Georgia. Other nearby towns include Ellijay and Dahlonega. Gainesville, about 38 miles away, is also a significant nearby city with public transportation options.
-
For kids, the best trail is the Amicalola Falls Loop Trail, a 2.1-mile scenic loop that offers great views and is manageable with some guidance. You can start at the bottom of the falls, drive to the ADA parking area for a shorter, easier walk, or begin at the top for a more strenuous hike down the stairs. This trail allows for flexibility based on the children’s abilities.
-
Yes, dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and accompanied by their owner at all times.
-
It costs $5 per day to park at the state park. This fee is the same for all vehicles, including cars, camper vans, and trailers. An annual ParkPass can be purchased for $50 to cover this fee for a year.
-
The main attraction is the 729-foot Amicalola Falls, the highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, located in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest in North Georgia. This waterfall is a key feature of the park since it was established in 1940. The falls are surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain and various hiking trails.
