Black Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Black Falls
Black Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked inside Camp Frank D. Merrill, a military land unit owned by DESG and managed by the U.S. Department of Defense (designation: MIL). The falls sit in a lush, forested pocket that rewards visitors with a peaceful, leafy setting and the low-key charm of a waterfall that hasn’t been overrun by crowds; specific details such as the falls’ exact height aren’t well-documented, which adds to the sense of discovery for those who make the trip. Access to the falls follows a short outing that feels more like a local hike than a major attraction: the route is commonly done as a roughly 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. Because Black Falls lies on a military installation, confirm access and any restrictions with the managing agency before you go — permits or temporary closures can apply — but for permitted visitors the trail offers a serene escape into Georgia woods popular with hikers who prefer quieter, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
The Setting
Black Falls sits at 1,680 feet within Camp Frank D Merrill, fed by the Chestatee River, in the hills of Georgia.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Amicalola Falls, the tallest waterfall in Georgia at 729 feet, lies 8.6 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Cochrans Falls (600 ft, 6.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Black Falls is an out-and-back route totaling about 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. No USFS trail name or number is listed in available records, and official surface, grade, and trail class data are not documented; expect typical forest singletrack with natural footing, tree roots, rocks, and occasional uneven ground. Because the route lies within Camp Frank D. Merrill (landowner: DESG; manager: Department of Defense), check current access rules, required permissions, and any safety advisories before heading out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil environment with natural beauty. The area may have uneven terrain and dense vegetation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Black Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Black Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and the waterfall flow is likely to be stronger due to seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked and could have uneven or slippery terrain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during heavy rains or inclement weather.
Current Water Conditions
79 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 89 years of record
0.74 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHESTATEE RIVER NEAR DAHLONEGA, GA (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
76 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
81 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
89 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
88 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
87 cfs
4/10Best 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 April.
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 Dahlonega 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 143 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,675 feet.
The ground changes about 45 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,675 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 143 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer 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
The exact location and directions to Black Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local resources or hiking guides for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. It is recommended to check with local authorities or nearby trailheads for parking options.
Elevation
1,680 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.623146° N, -84.105747° W
Land Management
Managed by DOD
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potential changes in weather.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn Dahlonega Near University
Cozy Cottage in Big Canoe
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Dahlonega - University Area by IHG
Dahlonega Resort and Vineyard
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Desoto Falls Recreation Area
12.3 miles away · 23 sites
Overview Desoto Falls Recreation Area is a U.S. Forest Service Campground located approximately 2 hours North of Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Desoto Falls offers visitors year-round recreation opportunities including camping, fishing, picnicking, and beautiful hikes to our nearby waterfalls. The campground is situated along Frogtown Creek with at an elevation of 2,080 feet above sea level, under a dense forest of deciduous and evergreen trees. 23
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in Georgia.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Georgian wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Black Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Black Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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