Helen Adventure Series: The Wonder Of Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff FallsThe falls are located with the 9,600 acres of the Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area. This region has been designated for foot traffic only and therefore it’s nature has been well preserved. When you visit, be prepared to see a lot of wildlife. The area is filled with wild birds such as wild turkeys, vireos, grosbeaks and of course, ravens.
Raven Cliffs Falls is a stunning waterfall that cascades through the middle of a massive 80 foot tall granite rock formation. It has a unique double cascade which includes three drops on it’s way down to Dodd Creek below. The first and most lengthy drop is at the top, where the water falls 60 feet until it hits rock, where it drops again 20 feet into a deep pool. From there, the water flows out once more and cascades down 20 more feet, landing into the creek below.
Raven Cliff Falls, along with three other impressive waterfalls that cascade into Dodd Creek, has made the creek one of the most beautiful in all of Georgia. Adding to the picturesque scenery of the area is the green, lush forest that surrounds it. In order to fully experience the beauty of the area, consider hiking through it.
Raven Cliff Falls Hiking Trail
The Raven Cliff Falls trail follows alongside Dodd Creek for approximately 2.5 miles and ends at the waterfall. During the hike you will pass near clear water pools, over several foot bridges and you will hear the rippling water of Dodd Creek. If you listen carefully, you will also hear the cascading sounds of smaller waterfalls along your walk. To see them up close, you can take short detours off the trail.
Since this is one of the most popular Helen Georgia attractions, expect to see a lot of people on the trail. This is especially true once you reach the falls. The path is also heavily used by fisherman to reach the lower portions of Dodd Creek. Therefore, you will likely encounter many of them, especially towards the beginning of the hike. Along the way you may also pass campers who enjoy primitive camping in the Raven Cliffs Wilderness area.
What to Expect
For those looking for fun Helen Georgia attractions for the entire family, the Raven Cliffs hiking trail is an excellent choice. The hike is relatively easy and is rated at a moderate difficulty level. It obtained this level primarily due to the final leg of the trail. This is where the trail increases it’s elevation gain substantially as it climbs the remaining 600 feet to the falls. However, the elevation gain is done is short spurts, so even a beginner could manage the climb without much effort. Also, the path can get slippery after a good rain, so in those instances be sure to watch your footing carefully.
What to Bring
To make the most of your hike, it is important to bring along anything you or your hiking companions may need. For this trail, you will need good shoes and a light rain jacket. You should also bring a sufficient supply of water for your hiking party and a few healthy snacks. Also, be sure to lather up with sunscreen before heading out, keeping in mind that the sun can still peak through the trees. Plus, you may be end up spending a while at the end of the trail captivated by and taking pictures of the waterfall. Additionally, for safety purposes, it is always a good idea to bring a map of the area and to tell someone where you are going.
How to Get There
The Raven Cliff Falls trailhead is only 7.5 miles from Helen. Driving there from Cedar Creek Cabins, you will follow Zeppelin Strasse southwest and turn left on Brucken Strasse. Once you reach Edelweiss make another left and this will take you to GA State Route 75. From there, head west until you get to GA-75, where you will make another left. This will lead you to Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Make a right there, and follow this highway for almost 4 miles to the Raven Cliff Falls trailhead, which will be on your right.
Being one of the most beautiful Helen Georgia attractions, the Raven Cliff Falls are certainly a place to take your whole family. Don’t forget to bring your camera and be ready to be captivated by this brilliant waterfall. Have you been to any of the waterfalls near Helen?
To find more great attractions and things to do in Helen, check out our free downloadable guide.
