High Shoals Falls + Blue Hole Falls - Hiawassee, Georgia
by Rebecca Hollman
updated Dec 15, 2019
High Shoals Falls + Blue Hole Falls - Hiawassee, Georgia
These two waterfalls, next to each other on the same trail, provide a great half day hike that lets you view the falls or a longer day if you want to enjoy the water and go for a swim. There is a rope swing over Blue Falls and easy access to get into High Shoals Falls to wade in the base of High Shoals Falls from the rocks below. Enjoy this day hike close to Hiawassee, Georgia but be prepared for the long, bumpy drive in.
Table of Contents
About the Trail:
After driving in along the unpaved road, there is a large gravel area that has become the parking lot. Many people also just park along this road, as it seems it’s not used for much else. The trail descends on a gradual downward slope into the forest from the parking lot. The trail continues to descend, across multiple switchbacks, until you reach a creek that must be crossed. As of recently, the bridge that led across the creek has suffered storm damage and is no longer passable. Instead, just hop across on some of the bigger rocks or don’t be afraid to get your feet wet. The trail continues downward until you reach a sharp branch off to the left for Blue Hole Falls. There is a small path to the the top of Blue Hole Falls, were the first little falls is. This is also where the rope swing is. I would not advise swimming in this area. The second more defined path leads down to the Blue Hole Falls base pool. This is where you can leave your stuff and go in for a swim. The rocks are extremely slippery so be careful while walking in the water. A lot of people also put up hammocks in the trees around here and spend the day swimming in the water.
Note: Climbing on or around the waterfalls is expressly forbidden. Swimming and wading below the falls is allowed, but only if you are careful to avoid trampling any vegetation.
Continue on down the original trail to High Shoals Falls. The path again turns abruptly to the left, leading to a wooden platform with views of the second waterfall. You can walk to the side of the platform and get up on the rocks and closer to the waterfall. This waterfall only has a small pool at it’s base, not swimmable in. You could take off your shoes and wade into this pool if you want, but Blue Hole Falls is the one for swimming. After you’ve had your fill of the waterfalls, head back up on the same trail back to the parking lot. It’s a steady, nearly unrelenting climb on the return hike, gaining over 500 feet elevation. The hike reaches the trailhead and parking area at 2.4 miles, completing the adventure.
Trail Info:
This trail is a 2.4 out and back trail that descends as you walk in to the waterfalls, and ascends on your hike back to your car. There is a total change in elevation of -550 feet from the trailhead to High Shoals Falls. A parking pass is not required and parking is free along the dirt road. The road in is challenging and bumpy, but does not require 4WD. There is a small creek crossing on the road in but it is manageable in all types of vehicles.
Trail Map:
Getting to the Trail:
Take the Unicoi Turnpike (Georgia Highway 75) south from Macedonia/Hiawassee or north from Helen. If coming from the south, there will be an extremely sharp right switchback turn off the highway onto a dirt road (this is hard to see from the highway so approach slowly). From the north, it is a gentler turn to the left and easier to see. Follow this dirt road (Indian Grave Gap Rd.) across a small creek crossing until you reach the High Shoals Trail Head. This area has a bigger gravel turnout that people use as make-shift parking. There will likely be other cars parked in this area that shows you that you are there.
Plan Your Stay
Find Things to Do Nearby
