Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.9 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Anna Ruby Falls
Anna Ruby Falls is a stunning double waterfall located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in Georgia. It is formed by Curtis Creek and York Creek, which cascade down from Tray Mountain. The falls are known for their picturesque beauty and accessibility, making them a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
The Setting
Anna Ruby Falls sits at 2,218 feet within Chattahoochee National Forest, fed by the Chattahoochee River, in the hills of Georgia. At 153 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Georgia.
Height: 153 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Dukes Creek Falls (150 ft) lies 6.2 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Horsetrough Falls (70 ft, 4.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Anna Ruby Falls (#15), a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail over pavement. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is fully developed (Class 5).
USFS Trail
ANNA RUBY FALLS #15
Trail Class
Fully Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.45 miTrail Description
The trail to Anna Ruby Falls is a short, paved path that winds through a lush forest. It is well-maintained and features interpretive signs along the way, providing information about the area's flora, fauna, and history. The trail leads to an observation deck with a clear view of the twin waterfalls.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 153 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is paved and may be accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Contact the managing agency to confirm current conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Anna Ruby Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Anna Ruby Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful times to visit due to blooming wildflowers and vibrant foliage. However, the falls are accessible and enjoyable year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Chattahoochee National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Stay on the designated trail and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls, as they can be slippery. Be cautious of wet or uneven surfaces, especially after rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER AT HELEN, GA (7 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
49 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
46 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
48 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
55 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early May, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Helen hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 208 feet of descent through Anna Ruby Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 153 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 2,207 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 204 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 158 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,207 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 208 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Anna Ruby Falls is located near Helen, Georgia, within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The falls can be accessed via a paved trail starting from the Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center. A small fee is required for parking.
Elevation
2,218 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.763428° N, -83.712121° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the trail may be slippery after rain.
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For this easy 0.9 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Eagles Landing
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen by IHG
Alpine Village Inn
Incredible Views! - Pet Friendly - Aska Adventure Area - Bearfoot Bungalow
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Andrew's Cove Campground
1.8 miles away · 10 sites
Overview Andrews Cove Campground is conveniently located 15 minutes outside of Helen, GA and offers 10 picturesque campsites along Andrews Creek. Hike the Andrews Cove Trail or go fishing in the creek, all within walking distance of your campsite. Get away from the crowds in Helen and enjoy a peaceful camping trip in the north Georgia mountains! Recreation The 1.9 mile Andrews Cove trail starts next to campsites 6 & 7 and is a great place to get away from the crowds in nearby Helen. This trail co
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The nearby town of Helen, Georgia, offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Unicoi State Park is also close by, providing additional hiking trails and recreational opportunities.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and deer along the trail. Be cautious and avoid feeding or approaching animals.
Cities near Anna Ruby Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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