Panther Creek Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in the state and offers substantial flow during most times of the year. The wide cascading falls and sizable pool at the base make this a popular destination.

• 7 mi round trip
• Awesome View
• Not for Kids
• Not for Dogs

Location: Near Tallulah Falls in Chattahoochee National Forest Georgia (maps & directions)
Gear: Our favorite snacks and camera gear
Gallery: Check out the pictures here

Panther Creek Falls is a worthy destination, but you'll have to work for it. You have a couple of options. There is the easier 7 mile hike from Historic Old 441 at the Panther Creek picnic area.

Or, you can take the very difficult 4.7 mile round trip hike from Yonah Dam to Panther Creek Falls. It involves a tight trail that is not as well maintained as well as a steep hike up and over a ridge to Panther Falls.

Either way that you decide to take, you'll have a nice opportunity to take in the North Georgia beauty at the sandy beach and deep pool at the base of the waterfall. Plus, there are many campsites on the trail on the way in that you can stay at to break up the hike on the more popular walk from Historic 441.

Follow the green trail blazes to stay on the correct route on the way in. Much of the trail will keep you within earshot of Panther Creek, enjoying its sounds and small cascades as you hike.

The trail crosses a wooden bridge over the creek at 1.5 miles in and crosses a small tributary. The trail can be pretty narrow and steep as it meanders along the creek and crosses tributary streams along the way to the main falls.

At 3.4 miles, you get a beautiful view of Upper Panther Creek falls. From there, you'll descend to the base of Panther Creek Falls and enjoy some time in the water and taking in the sights.

The Panther Creek Falls are just south of Tallulah Gorge with its set of 4 waterfalls on the Tallulah River and Cascade Falls tumbling into the northern side of the canyon.

Just west of the gorge the US 441 near the head of Lake Rabun you can also find the trail to Angel Falls and Panther Falls as well as Minnehaha Falls.

Within 30 miles, you can also visit Hemlock Falls west of Lake Burton or the falls at Warwoman Dell east of Clayton.

Other Resources

Park Website
Park Map