Visiting the Toccoa Falls Waterfall in Toccoa, GA

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Did you know that there is a gorgeous 186-foot tall waterfall, which is 19 feet taller than Niagara Falls if you are keeping track,  hidden in northeastern Georgia?   What if I told you that the hike to this hidden gem (if you want to even call it a hike, for that matter) is under a quarter of a mile each way?   It’s true!  Let me tell you all about Toccoa, GA because visiting the Toccoa Falls waterfall needs to be added to your Georgia bucket list this year!

Before I tell you more, just take a minute to admire just how beautiful this waterfall is.

Toccoa, Georgia

The Toccoa Falls waterfall is easily one of the best waterfalls in Georgia! It is located in the town of Toccoa and is probably one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes (or let’s just call it a walk) in the state of Georgia.   However, to clear up some confusion, the town is actually called Toccoa, Georgia, not Toccoa Falls, Georgia.

Living nearby in Dothan, Alabama, we have been able to explore a number of great places in Georgia. If you are interested in reading about more of them, you can always click here! 

But today, I want to dedicate this post to everything you need to know about visiting the waterfall in Toccoa, GA.  And if I missed something, leave me a comment, and I will make sure to add it to this post!

The Toccoa Falls Waterfall

The visit to the waterfall in Toccoa is an adventure that nature enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy!

This is such a rewarding hike little hike for young kids who are guaranteed to get excited as they turn the corner to see and hear the rush of the water.  It is also a great option for seniors or less mobile hikers who may not always be able to tackle the big trails that often lead to waterfalls like this. 

The falls are accessible via a short gravel trail and under a half-mile round trip.  The Toccoa Falls trail runs along a charming little creek that makes its way from the reservoir below the falls. On a level of 1-10 difficulty, this hike is a 1. The only thing that would be easier would be to just drive right up to it.

The falls themselves are beautiful! 

But what else would you expect from the tallest free-falling waterfall on this side of the Mississippi River? The falls flow from the Toccoa Creek above there in the foothills of the mountains.  You really wouldn’t expect to see it here, though, which makes it even more special.

Where is Toccoa Falls?

Toccoa Falls is located in northeastern Georgia, very close to the South Carolina border.  This waterfall is actually privately owned by Toccoa Falls College, although they do open it to the public and welcome visitors.

Directions to the Toccoa Falls Waterfall

The Toccoa Falls waterfall is approximately 90 miles or 1.5 hours from Atlanta, Georgia, and only 38 miles away from Clemson, South Carolina. It’s easily the best waterfall near Atlanta, so it’s perfect for day trips!

Location: 107 Kincaid Drive, Toccoa Falls, GA 30598

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How to Visit the Toccoa Falls Waterfall

Nestled within the campus of Toccoa Falls College, the waterfall is almost hidden.  In fact, we had to turn around twice to make sure we were heading the right way.

Once you enter the Toccoa Falls College campus, past the gatehouse, you just continue straight from Kincaid Dr onto Forrest Drive until you get to the gift shop and parking lot. It is right across from a small lake, and you can see the old mill on display on the north side of the parking lot.

Toccoa Falls Waterfall Hours & Admission

The waterfall is open to the public from 10 am – 4 pm on weekdays and from 12 pm – 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. 

To access the Falls, you must pass through Gate Cottage and the gift shop/book store and pay a small fee.

Admission Fee:  $2 for adults / $1 for Seniors / Free for children 6 & under.  They also offer a set price of $6 for a family of 4+.

FAQ Before Visiting the Toccoa Falls Waterfall

Can you bring pets to Toccoa Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.

Can you get into the water at the Toccoa Falls waterfall? 

According to the official Toccoa Falls College website, swimming, wading, fishing, climbing, or hiking are NOT allowed at the falls.

When is the best time to visit the falls? 

Well, if you mean the time of day, I would say the earlier, the better.  It can get crowded on weekends and holidays, although we were there on Labor Day at around noon, and it was not unbearably crowded, in my opinion.  They strictly close at 4 pm each day, so do not arrive just before closing time.

There really isn’t a bad time to visit, but if you are picking a day to go, it’s always good to visit waterfalls after a period of rain.  However, we went after several days of sunshine, and it was still flowing strong.   And if you are debating which month to visit, it’s probably most gorgeous in the Fall as the leaves are changing.

Is there food at Toccoa Falls Park? 

There is not a restaurant or a food truck there at the Falls, however, you can bring a picnic to eat on the rocks or just outside the gift shop.

Fun Facts About the Toccoa Falls Waterfall

• The name Toccoa comes from a Cherokee word meaning beautiful.
• Toccoa Falls is 19 feet higher than Niagra Falls
• The Toccoa Falls waterfall is said to be the tallest free-flowing waterfall east of the Mississippi River.
• The waterfall at Toccoa Falls is privately owned, which seems to give it less publicity, making it a hidden gem
• The Cherokee Indians once called this area home. In 1783, it was traded to white settlers. You can read a legend of the Cherokee Princess Toccoa here.

A Somber Moment in Toccoa Falls History

While you are there, make sure to read the memorial just before the waterfall at Toccoa Falls. This site has a tragic story to tell. Back in November 1977, in the morning hours and after days of hard rains, the Kelly Barnes Dam, located above that was the Toccoa Falls Bible College (now Toccoa Falls College, a four-year accredited Christian college), failed.   

In a matter of minutes, the campus was flooded as 176 million gallons of water spilled into the college (including a trailer park), and in the end, 39 people lost their lives.  Most were from the same families, and it was a true tragedy.

The dam was actually never rebuilt, and the falls are now free-flowing from the Toccoa Creek above.

What Else Should You Do While in Toccoa Georgia?

You could easily spend the day exploring this small Southern town nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.  Head just east of downtown and visit the World’s Strongest Man Statue.  It was fascinating to learn about Paul Anderson and his legacy.

A few other things that we would have loved to do if we had more time include visiting the Currahee Vineyard and Winery, especially when they have live music to go along with your wine tasting.   

You can also step back in time at the Travelers Rest Historic Site located just north of town.

If you asked people what the best restaurant in Toccoa is, many would send you to Shirley’s Soul Food Cafe.  Featured on the Food Network, this casual cafe features homestyle southern cooking. 

Don’t come looking for Filet Mignon or Salmon Hollandaise. Here, you will find baked chicken, fried chicken, steamed cabbage, collard greens, and all the fixins. 

Hotels near Toccoa Falls

If you choose to stay overnight in Toccoa, Georgia, your hotel options are limited.  You may even want to stay at the Simmons Bond Inn Bed and Breakfast.   Or consider the options outside of town.  There is actually a great Holiday Inn Vacation Club Apple Mountain Resort just 7 miles away that has an outdoor pool and some great family-friendly activities, including horseback riding! 

Or, if you are camping, consider the Toccoa RV Park and Campground.

PIN: My Toccoa Falls Travel Blog