Haynes Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Haynes Falls
Haynes Falls is a quiet, picturesque waterfall in Georgia that rewards visitors with a peaceful forest setting and fewer crowds than more popular cascades. Its tucked-away character makes it an attractive stop for hikers and photographers looking for a serene outing amid natural scenery. The hike to the falls is a moderately rated outing: a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it suitable for most day hikers who are comfortable on moderate terrain. Official trail surface and routing details are limited, so plan for a half-day trip, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes to handle uneven footing.
The Setting
Haynes Falls sits at 2,201 feet along the Hiwassee River, in the hills of Georgia.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Anna Ruby Falls (153 ft) lies 11.9 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Horsetrough Falls (70 ft, 7.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back) Elevation gain: ~350 feet Difficulty: Moderate Trail type: Out-and-back Surface/grade/class: Official surface and class data are not documented in available sources; hikers should expect natural, possibly uneven tread with moderate grades. Bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for limited signage or formal trail infrastructure.
What to Expect
Expect a tranquil and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural forested areas. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Georgia.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Haynes Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Haynes Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer may also be enjoyable, but prepare for warmer temperatures.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trails may be slippery after rain, and the area may have uneven terrain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting alone. Cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
33 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
2.45 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 HIWASSEE RIVER AT RIVERSIDE DR, NR HIAWASSEE, GA (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
31 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
29 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
28 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
28 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
28 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
30 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
35 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early 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 Young Harris 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 189 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,198 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 120 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 106 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, 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
- 2,198 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 189 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Haynes Falls is located in Georgia, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
2,201 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.902590° N, -83.836567° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail and access points may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Eagles Landing
Mistletoe Cabin- Private cabin w views, Hottub, pet friendly
Meadow Retreat - Hot Tub, Fire Pit & Games
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa
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
Upper Chattahoochee River Campground
8.6 miles away · 19 sites
Overview The drive up through the winding misty roads of North Georgia leading to this 19-site, developed campground is almost as breath-taking as the site itself. Although the drive leaves one feeling as if civilization has been left far, far behind, the ever-popular and beloved alpine village of Helen, Georgia is less than an hour away. Camping here, visitors can enjoy the pleasure of Georgia's number one vacation spot with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the City of Helen and many recre
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in Georgia, such as Tallulah Gorge State Park and Amicalola Falls, may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Georgian wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Haynes Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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