Hightower Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Hightower Falls
Hightower Falls is a picturesque waterfall and historic site in Cedartown, Georgia — a spot beloved for its mossy rock ledges and the atmospheric ruins of an old mill that hint at the area's past. As noted on Wikipedia, the site is recognized for both its natural beauty and its historical character. The falls sit on private property, so visitors should be mindful of access restrictions and seek permission where required; when public access is allowed the cascade makes a rewarding setting for photography, picnics, and small gatherings. For hikers and explorers, Hightower Falls can be experienced as a short stroll from the parking area or as a modest out-and-back outing. The most commonly recorded route covers roughly 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate — a pleasant, attainable hike for folks comfortable on uneven, unmarked paths. Respect the landowner’s rules, pack out what you bring in, and plan ahead so you can enjoy both the waterfall and the historic mill ruins responsibly.
The Setting
Hightower Falls sits at 951 feet along the Euharlee Creek, in the foothills of Georgia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: ~2.4 miles round-trip. Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. There is no USFS trail designation for Hightower Falls; the site is reached via informal, unmarked footpaths rather than a maintained federal trail. Many visitors simply walk a short distance from the parking area to view the falls, but the commonly referenced hiking route extends into a roughly 2.4-mile out-and-back with moderate climbing. Expect unpaved, variable footing and minimal trail infrastructure — navigation is straightforward but involves walking on natural terrain rather than a groomed trail.
What to Expect
Expect a serene and scenic environment with a beautiful waterfall and historical ruins. The area is well-maintained but access is limited to those with reservations.
Accessibility
Accessibility may be limited due to uneven terrain and the private nature of the property. Contact the property owner for specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hightower Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fees are required
Permit required
Reservations act as a permit to access the property. Contact the property owner for details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hightower Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but it may be warmer.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on uneven terrain and stay within designated areas. Since the site is on private property, follow all rules and guidelines provided by the owner.
Current Water Conditions
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
1.85 ft
Water depth at gauge
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
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 EUHARLEE CREEK AT US 278, AT ROCKMART, GA (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
7 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
7 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 late 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 Buchanan 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 163 feet of descent through Hightower Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 957 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 21 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 70 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls 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
- 957 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 163 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
Hightower Falls is located in Cedartown, Georgia, and is accessible via private property. Visitors must make reservations in advance to access the site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available on-site for visitors with reservations.
Hours
Elevation
951 feet above sea level
Coordinates
33.934269° N, -85.144116° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Make reservations well in advance, as access is restricted. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn Cedartown
La Quinta by Wyndham Atlanta Douglasville
Super 8 by Wyndham Villa Rica
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta W (I-20) Douglasville by IHG
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 include the Silver Comet Trail and Cedartown's historic downtown area.
Wildlife
The area around Hightower Falls may feature common Georgia wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and deer.
Cities near Hightower Falls
Writing about Hightower Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.