Horsetrough Falls
Georgia • 70 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Horsetrough Falls
Horsetrough Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia. It is part of the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River and is surrounded by lush forest, making it a serene and scenic destination.
The Setting
Horsetrough Falls sits at 2,562 feet within Chattahoochee National Forest, fed by the Hiwassee River, in the hills of Georgia. The falls drop 70 feet.
Height: 70 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Anna Ruby Falls (153 ft) lies 4.8 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Dukes Creek Falls (150 ft, 6.4 mi) and Helton Creek Falls (100 ft, 6.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Appalachian Trail (#1), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
APPALACHIAN TRAIL #1
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.06 miTrail Description
The trail to Horsetrough Falls is short and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. It follows a gentle path through the forest and includes a wooden boardwalk leading to a viewing platform near the base of the falls.
What to Expect
The falls drop 70 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Horsetrough Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Horsetrough Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Horsetrough Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Chattahoochee National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The road to the trailhead may be rough and require a high-clearance vehicle. Exercise caution on wet or slippery surfaces near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
73 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 18 years of record
2.85 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 (12 km away).
Today
Strong
73 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
64 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
64 cfs
10/10Fri
Roaring
70 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
78 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
74 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
71 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
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 Helen hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Horsetrough Falls is located near Helen, Georgia, and can be accessed via the Horsetrough Falls Trail, which begins at the Upper Chattahoochee Campground. The campground is accessible via Forest Service Road 44, which may be rough and require a high-clearance vehicle.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Upper Chattahoochee Campground, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,562 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.795093° N, -83.788235° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Check road conditions before heading out, especially during winter or after heavy rains.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Eagles Landing
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen by IHG
Crabapple-Secluded cabin with pond creek access, hot tube, fire pit in Blue Ridge
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
0.6 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
The nearby town of Helen, Georgia, offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Horsetrough Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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