Georgia Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Georgia Falls
Georgia Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall in Alabama situated on Pickwick Reservoir Retained Land managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The site carries a designation of FOTH and tends to see fewer visitors than larger, well-known falls — making it a peaceful choice for hikers and photographers who appreciate solitude and slow afternoons by the water. Access to the falls is along a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that gains about 350 feet and is generally rated moderate. The trail is on TVA retained land, so expect a more natural, less-developed tread; bring sturdy footwear, follow posted TVA guidance, and pack out what you pack in. The modest climb is rewarded by a tranquil cascade and quiet banks that are ideal for a short day hike or a picnic.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Hike summary: 2.4 miles (out-and-back), 350 ft elevation gain, difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Surface and formal trail grade/class are not documented for this TVA retained-land route; the path is primarily natural tread with uneven footing and some short steeper sections. There is no USFS trail name or number associated with this route. Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority on Pickwick Reservoir Retained Land—follow posted signs and standard Leave No Trace practices.
What to Expect
Expect a quiet and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural landscapes. The area may have limited amenities, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Georgia Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Georgia Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is often higher and temperatures are more comfortable.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked or uneven. Visitors should exercise caution, especially after rain when the path may be slippery. Cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
26 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 31 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CYPRESS CREEK NEAR FLORENCE AL (7 km away).
Today
Low
27 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
28 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
25 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
26 cfs
4/10Sat
Moderate
29 cfs
4/10Sun
Moderate
28 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
29 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to mid April, peaking in February.
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 Muscle Shoals 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 140 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 432 feet.
The ground is already steep on the way in, falling about 118 feet in the 500 feet above the pin, and levels out below the falls. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 432 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 140 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Georgia Falls is located in Alabama, but specific directions to the site are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or maps for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
0 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.794066° N, -87.626457° W
Land Management
Managed by TVA
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water. Check local conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn & Suites-Florence Downtown
Hampton Inn Florence Midtown near University of North Alabama
Baymont by Wyndham Florence/Muscle Shoals
Days Inn by Wyndham Muscle Shoals
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in Alabama.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Alabama wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Georgia Falls
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