Amicalola Falls: A Day Trip from Canton, GA

Amicalola Falls: A Day Trip from Canton, GA

The tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, about an hour from Canton — the falls staircase, footbridge, overlook deck, and the Springer Mountain approach trail.

About an hour north of Canton in Dawsonville, Amicalola Falls is home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast — 729 feet of falls — and it's one of the most rewarding easy day trips around.

See the falls

The footbridge at the base of Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, Georgia
The footbridge at the base of Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, Georgia

You can climb the staircase that runs right alongside the falls, or drive to the top and walk down — either way, cross the footbridge at the base for the classic head-on view.

Overlook & mountain views

The overlook deck and North Georgia mountain views at Amicalola Falls State Park
The overlook deck and North Georgia mountain views at Amicalola Falls State Park

The overlook deck rewards you with sweeping North Georgia mountain views, and the state park lodge makes a nice lunch stop — or an overnight if you want to turn it into a weekend.

For serious hikers

The approach trail to Springer Mountain — the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail — starts right here. Even if you're not thru-hiking, a short stretch is a beautiful walk.

Amicalola is an easy, jaw-dropping day trip from Canton — see more in my Canton day trips guide. Want to stay closer to home? Here are my favorite Canton hikes and outdoor adventures.