Wilson Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Wilson Falls
Wilson Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in Georgia that rewards visitors with a peaceful, picture-perfect setting tucked into surrounding woods. Because it doesn’t draw large crowds, the falls are a great pick for hikers and photographers looking for a quiet spot to enjoy cascading water and forest ambiance. The most common access is via a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it a doable half-day outing for most active hikers. If you’re planning to camp nearby, Wildcat Creek Campground #2 Upper is roughly 3.23 km away and provides a convenient base for an overnight stay before or after visiting the falls.
The Setting
Wilson Falls sits at 1,965 feet along the Tallulah River, in the hills of Georgia.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Anna Ruby Falls (153 ft) lies 7.6 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Route: 2.4-mile out-and-back (round-trip). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not available for this route; use appropriate footwear and expect typical forest-trail conditions. Wildcat Creek Campground #2 Upper lies about 3.23 km from the trailhead for nearby camping.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less crowded compared to other popular waterfalls in Georgia.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Wilson Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Wilson Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have better flow during these seasons. Summer can also be enjoyable, but the flow may be reduced.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain on the trail. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail more hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
49 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 62 years of record
1.81 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 TALLULAH RIVER NEAR CLAYTON, GA (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
50 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
54 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
56 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
55 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 mid April, peaking in April.
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 Tiger 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 300 feet of descent through Wilson Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,953 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 314 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 142 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,953 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 300 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Wilson 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 trail resources for accurate guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and check local resources for updates.
Elevation
1,965 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.818149° N, -83.595170° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail and access points may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potential uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen by IHG
Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars
Mountain Aire Cottages, Inn & Glamping
Black Forest Bed & Breakfast
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
Wildcat Creek Campground #2 Upper
2 miles away · 0 sites
CLOSURE DUE TO WINTER WEATHER--JANUARY 14, 2022 storms have damaged the West Wildcat Road to not allow safe vehicle access to the campgrounds.Wildcat 2 Campground is closed. Cannot access with vehicle to clean COVID standards.Although the winding road leading to the campground is not trailer or RV friendly, the payoff of landing a night in this environment is pure delight. These developed tent camping only campgrounds are buried deep in the North Georgia Mountains west of Lake Burton and along th
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and hiking trails in Georgia may be nearby, but specific attractions close to Wilson Falls are not documented.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Georgia wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other potential hazards.
Cities near Wilson Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Wilson Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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