A Waterfalls Getaway: Chasing Waterfalls Near Clayton, Georgia
Rabun County in the North Georgia Mountains enjoys abundant rainfall and boast over 50 accessible waterfalls, making this getaway a true paradise for waterfall lovers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers.
Tucked into the North Georgia Mountains, Clayton is surrounded by some of the most scenic waterfalls in the Southeast. From easy roadside overlooks to rewarding forest hikes – A Clayton getaway is not complete without chasing waterfalls!
Whether you are planning a romantic mountain getaway, a girls’ trip, or simply looking to reconnect with nature, these waterfalls are all within a short drive from your home base stay at Beechwood Inn.
Here are Beechwood’s innkeepers to-go waterfalls recommendations.
Minnehaha Falls
One of the most photographed waterfalls in North Georgia, Minnehaha Falls is simply magical. Water gently cascades down layered rock formations surrounded by lush forest, creating a peaceful setting perfect for photos, picnics, or simply soaking in the sounds of nature.
The hike is short and relatively easy – although on an incline, ideal for or anyone wanting a scenic stop without a strenuous trek. Located near Lake Rabun, this waterfall pairs beautifully with a day exploring the lake or enjoying lunch nearby.
Distance from Clayton: Approximately 25 minutes
Panther Falls & Angel Falls
These two waterfalls are often experienced together on one scenic hike located within the lush forest around Lake Rabun.
Panther Falls is the first stop and offers a small but beautiful cascade with easy access. Continue farther along the trail and you will reach Angel Falls — a taller, more dramatic waterfall tucked into the forest beside Lake Rabun.
The trail offers beautiful mountain scenery and is especially vibrant during spring and early summer when the forest is alive with greenery.
Distance from Clayton: 30 minutes approximately
Tallulah Falls
Located within Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls is one of the most iconic waterfall destinations in Georgia. The gorge itself is nearly 1,000 feet deep, with multiple waterfalls rushing through the canyon below. Visitors enjoy dramatic overlooks, suspension bridge views, and hiking trails throughout the park. Even if you prefer an easier outing, the scenic overlooks alone are worth the visit.
Tallulah Falls is home to five dramatic waterfalls:
- Hurricane Falls – 96 feet
- L’Eau d’Or – 46 feet
- Tempesta Falls – 76 feet
- Oceana Falls – 50 feet
- Bridal Veil Falls – 17 feet
Distance from Clayton: 15 minutes approximately
Becky Branch Falls
Located just minutes from downtown Clayton, Becky Branch Falls is one of the area’s most peaceful hidden gems and an easy way to experience the beauty of the famous Bartram Trail. Beginning at the scenic Warwoman Dell Recreation Area, this short and rewarding trail follows a gentle mountain stream through lush forest, rhododendron, and moss-covered rocks before arriving at the cascading waterfall.
What makes this hike especially memorable is the journey itself. The trail is part of the historic Bartram Trail, named after naturalist William Bartram, who explored the Southeast in the 1700s documenting the region’s incredible landscapes, plants, and wildlife. Today, the trail remains one of North Georgia’s most scenic hiking experiences, offering a quieter and more intimate connection to nature.
Distance from Clayton: 10 minutes approximately
Hemlock Falls
Located within the scenic Moccasin Creek State Park in Lake Burton, Hemlock Falls is a favorite for visitors looking for a peaceful forest hike with rewarding views. The scenic 2-mile trail follows alongside Moccasin Creek, winding through towering trees, wooden footbridges, and tranquil mountain scenery before reaching the beautiful cascading falls.
The gentle sounds of the creek accompanies you throughout the hike, making the journey just as memorable as the waterfall itself. It is a special hike for every season.
Distance from Clayton: 25 minutes approximately
Mud Creek Falls
Tucked away near Sky Valley, Mud Creek Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in the North Georgia Mountains – this is part of the charm of the peaceful, uncrowded setting. You can also enjoy a flat trail hike along Mud Creek. Surrounded by lush forest and mountain scenery, this beautiful waterfall offers visitors a quiet escape into nature just a short scenic drive from Clayton.
Unlike some of the region’s more strenuous hikes, Mud Creek Falls is appreciated for its accessibility – you literally can park within steps of the waterfall revealing itself.
The drive to the waterfall is part of the experience itself, winding through scenic mountain roads, charming valleys, and elevated overlooks near Sky Valley – Georgia’s highest city.
Distance from Clayton: 25 minutes approximately
After the Adventure of Chasing Waterfalls – Relax at Beechwood Inn
From hidden waterfalls to scenic mountain drives, Clayton offers the perfect blend of adventure and peaceful retreat — and Beechwood Inn places you close to it all.
Add a Picnic Experience to make your waterfall hike even more memorable. Learn more about the Beechwood Inn Picnic Experience.
Beechwood Inn makes it easy – combining curated details, scenic locations, and effortless planning so you can simply enjoy.
