Helen is host to a variety of activities, such as hiking and whitewater rafting, and is one of the most gorgeous wildernesses on the planet. If you're looking for some attractive places to enjoy some fresh air and relaxation, here are a few of the best of Georgia's Forests & State Parks in the area.

Thinking of getting away from it all in the north Georgia Mountains? Your dog says YES! Let's Go!

There's no lack of fun activities for all ages when you visit the north Georgia mountains and Helen GA. Here is a handy list of some things to do that guarantee smiles all around.

When you are on vacation, is hiking one of your to-do activities? One of the great outdoor activities, hiking is one of the easiest to organize and rewarding to do. Not only is it a good way to exercise but it also makes you appreciate the natural beauty around you. 

Before you go for a hike, remember to wear your hiking boots, bring lots of water, put on sunscreen, and wear weather-appropriate attire.

Here are the best hiking trails you can go in Helen, Georgia:

1. Anna Ruby Falls

A 0.9-mile trail, it features a beautiful waterfall and is good for all skill levels. Accessible throughout the whole year round, the trail is used for hiking and nature trips. The trail is paved which leads to two observation decks and a picnic area if you want to stop by and appreciate the double waterfalls. Once you cross Smith Creek over a bridge, you will see luscious wildflowers and rocks thick with moss. The area is child and dog-friendly but you have to put the dog on a leash. The hike is pretty easy although the outbound trek is mostly uphill. And while the twin waterfalls are clearly the main attraction, the trail itself is a beautiful one.

2. Raven Cliff Falls Trail

Featuring a waterfall, the Raven Cliff Falls Trail is rated moderate and is a 9.3-kilometer trail located near Helen, Georgia. Aside from hiking, you can go fishing and watching the wildlife. The trail follows a beautiful creek with several waterfalls. The majority of the trail is covered, well-marked, and maintained. At the end of the trail is gorgeous waterfalls.

3. Duke’s Creek Falls in Chattahoochee National Forest

Considered a moderate trail, the Duke's Creek Falls Trail is kid and dog-friendly. It is just north of Helen and two miles out and back through a mountain stream-filled forest. There are viewing platforms where you can watch the gorgeous 150 ft tall drop of Duke's Creek Falls. You can go hiking, walking, or bird-watching here. There are wooden boardwalks and stairs occasionally along the way and most of the trail is wide and flat with switchbacks. If you want to rest, there are also benches available.

4. Bottoms Loop at Unicoi

A two-mile loop is considered and rated moderate. As you hike, you will pass plenty of rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and hemlocks. The trail crosses several brooks and winds through a hardwood forest. It will then meet the rippling waters of Smith Creek. A beginner-friendly trail, it has compacted soil.

5. Ash Creek in Smithgall Woods

Rated slightly more difficult than the other trails, the Ash Creek Loop trails are at 3.8 miles round trip. There is a stream crossing and a covered bridge. The trail is mostly used for running and hiking. It is also a good chance to see wildlife.

6. Laurel Ridge Trail Loop

Accessible all year round, the trail is 2.6 kilometers and good for all skill levels. This trail offers pretty scenery with a nice mountain overlook at the top. There is a moderate incline and downhill and some loose gravel. Best to bring a walking stick and wear closed-toe shoes. The trail is well marked but some of the posts can be hard to see. Pay attention to the arrow directions on the posts.

7. Andrews Cove Trail

The trail is two miles and follows an old logging road up Andrews Cove to the Application Trail and Forest Service Rd 283 at Indian Grave Gap. The crease is deep along the trail. Above Andrews Creek, the mountain walls rise 1,000 ft. There is a stream.

8. Tallulah Gorge North and South Rim Trails

This is a heavily trafficked loop trail and rated it as moderate. 1.8 mile, the trail is accessible all year-round and dog-friendly. There are waterfalls. The hike allows you to watch stunning views of the canyon's rim without making a difficult descent into the gorge. 

Which trail are you keen to go? 

Cabins in Helen Georgia

You need a good home base for your hiking adventure, and Cedar Creek Cabin Rentals has over 30 luxury cabins for you to relax in at the end of your fun day. Below is just one kind of cabin we offer, our popular treehouses. Click the button below to see more and get your adventure started! 

Relax in our luxurious and private treehouses with spa-like amenities. Reconnect with nature and wildlife as you fill your lungs with clean and fresh air on a walk along our private tracks. The treehouses will give you a true sense of home and comfort in the wilderness but not too far from civilization. 

These treehouses are perfect for romantic weekends or a relaxing break with a small family as it accommodates four people. After your hike, this is the ultimate immersion in nature and comfort.

Are you tired of city living? Experience a quieter way of life in Helen, Georgia, where native plant and wildlife abounds. You’ll find the native flora and fauna everywhere you go in the town and get a look at the natural history of the region.

This blog post is part of “YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE NORTH GEORGIA OUTDOORS” blog series.

Helen, Georgia's attractions are countless. From the German-style shops in town to the scenic Georgia mountains, there is never a shortage of things to do.

The area is also the perfect setting for seeing stunning waterfalls, one of nature's most beautiful wonders.