LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Padgett Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Padgett Falls
Padgett Falls is a tucked-away waterfall in Georgia that offers a peaceful escape into hardwood forest and fern-lined banks. The setting is quietly scenic—ample shade, mossy rock outcrops and filtered light through the canopy make it a rewarding spot for photographers and hikers seeking a low-key nature stop away from busier state parks. The falls are reached via a moderate out-and-back route that climbs gently through woodland, so expect a bit of elevation change on the approach. The trail’s manageable distance and forested character make Padgett Falls a great half-day outing for hikers who enjoy a short, scenic trek with a pleasant payoff at the cascade.
The Setting
Padgett Falls sits at 1,368 feet along the Fausett Creek, in the foothills of Georgia.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route winds through a wooded area to the base of the falls; the tread can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. No official USFS trail number, surface, grade, or class data were provided for this route.
What to Expect
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 Padgett Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Padgett Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Padgett Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on wet or slippery rocks near the waterfall. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 52 years of record
1.43 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 FAUSETT CREEK NEAR TALKING ROCK, GA (13 km away).
Today
Moderate
3 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
3 cfs
4/10Mon
Moderate
3 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
3 cfs
8/10Wed
Low
3 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
3 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
2 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid May, peaking in March.
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 Jasper 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 153 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,371 feet.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 126 feet in the 500 feet below. 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
- 1,371 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 153 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
Padgett Falls is located near the town of Thomaston, Georgia. Access to the falls may require navigating rural roads, so a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside or small pull-off areas near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,368 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.452313° N, -84.467705° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring insect repellent, as bugs may be present in warmer months. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Where to Stay
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jasper
Cozy Cottage in Big Canoe
Comfort Inn & Suites East Ellijay
Petit Crest Villas
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
DOLL MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND
14.2 miles away · 68 sites
Overview Doll Mountain Campground is located in the North Georgia Mountains on beautiful Carters Lake, Which is just a short 70 miles north of Atlanta. Carters Lake provides clean, safe, and quiet campgrounds that help you escape the hustle and bustle of your day to day routine and relax with your family. Doll Mountain offers boating, picnicking at the day use area, and many other summer time activities.Doll Mountain, one of the larger campgrounds offering 68 campsites to choose from.The majority
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
High Falls State Park and Sprewell Bluff Park are located nearby and offer additional hiking and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes during warmer months.
Cities near Padgett Falls
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