Hurricane Falls
Day Hike
Tallulah Gorge State Park – Rabun County
*Photos by Alan Cressler
one day
Commitment
intermediate
Fitness level
rabun co.
Location
What to Expect
On Thursday, June 11, join the Georgia Conservancy for a day hike to Hurricane Falls at Tallulah Gorge State Park in Rabun County.
Carved over millions of years by the Tallulah River, the Tallulah Gorge plunges nearly 1,000 feet deep and stretches for two miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains. A series of waterfalls cascade through the gorge, creating a powerful example of how moving water shapes mountain landscapes.
On this hike we’ll explore multiple vantage points throughout Tallulah Gorge State Park, including the famous Hurricane Falls suspension bridge deep within the gorge. Participants will descend a series of staircases into the canyon before crossing the river and climbing back out, providing a fun opportunity to experience the geology and hydrology of the gorge from within.
Because Tallulah Gorge offers several waterfall viewpoints and trail systems, this program includes two connected hikes with a break between them. The first hike focuses on descending into the gorge to reach Hurricane Falls, while the second explores additional overlooks and waterfall viewpoints along the rim. Together these hikes provide a comprehensive look at one of Georgia’s most iconic river landscapes.
The Schedule
Thursday Morning: Welcome Hikers!
We will meet at the Tallulah Gorge State Park Visitor Center before beginning our first hike into the gorge. The day will include two guided hiking segments with time between them to rest, refill water, and visit the visitor center.
10:00 AM – Participant check-in and trip overview at the Visitor Center
10:15 AM – 1:00 PM – Hurricane Falls Gorge Hike
Descend into the gorge via the main staircase, cross the suspension bridge near Hurricane Falls, and return to the rim.
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch / Rest Break
1:30 PM – 4:00 PM – Rim Overlooks Hike
Explore the Tallulah Gorge rim trail system and several waterfall overlooks before returning to the visitor center.
Plan your trip
The Details
Arrival Time
Please plan to arrive around 9:45 AM to allow time for parking, restrooms, and check-in. A Georgia State Parks Day Pass is required and can be purchased on-site.
Look for the Georgia Conservancy sign.
What Should I Pack?
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles (if you have them), 2 liters of water, snacks/lunch, extra socks, sun protection, and a daypack.
Optional: binoculars.
How Long Is The Hike?
4–7 miles total depending on group pace and selected rim trail segments.
Accessibility & Terrain:
Mix of paved paths, dirt trails, and extensive staircases. The descent into the gorge includes more than 600 stairs each way. Surfaces may be steep or uneven in areas. Not wheelchair accessible beyond visitor center areas and main overlooks.
Register For This Trip
*Registration opens on March 5 at 5 PM. Limited spots available.
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