Only a handful of waterfalls in Georgia have swimming holes. These spots prove you can hike in and cool off, all against the backdrop of beautiful cascades.
Summer is synonymous with swimming. One-pieces, bikinis, and trunks are available at every turn, from the local specialty boutique to the corner service station, and even the checkout aisle of the grocery store. Clearly, everyone has the same idea. There’s just something about plunging into a pool on a scorching summer day.
While a neighborhood swimming pool might be convenient, and the Atlantic Ocean’s sandy beaches might be a short drive away, neither is nearly as magical as a cold dip in the middle of a forest under rushing water. Thanks to its mountainous topography, Georgia is dotted with waterfalls. But these aren’t just any cascades; these natural wonders are waterfalls that you can actually swim in. Bookmark this comprehensive list of ten waterfalls in Georgia with swimming pools to seek out this summer.
Sea Creek Falls
At just under 0.5 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain, you might classify this swimming hole access as less of a hike and more of a stroll. Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest about an hour from Blue Ridge, Sea Creek Falls has a 30-foot drop into its sandy-bottomed pool.
The quick, easy walk to the base makes this waterfall and corresponding swimming hole ideal for beginners and families, plus leashed dogs are welcome to tag along, too. Given its family-friendly reputation, this spot tends to draw a crowd, so an early arrival is your best bet for having the pool (and one of just a few parking spots!) to yourself.
Mill Creek Falls
This stream in the Cohutta Mountains of Northwest Georgia changes from gentle movement to several rushing falls. Scenic wanderers will delight in the first two, while eager swimmers will be enchanted with the final cascade’s sparkling wading pool.
Local hikers note there is a bit of a scramble during the 1.4-mile round-trip hike to reach the pool, so wear appropriate shoes and when all else fails, embrace the mud!
Panther Creek Falls
At seven miles round-trip, this hike is a commitment that’s well worth the reward. As the name suggests, the hike follows Panther Creek as it meanders through Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest’s ferns and foliage.
The climax is a series of wide, tiered waterfalls that tumble into a pool complete with a sandy beach. Make a weekend of it by grabbing one of the first-come, first-served campsites along the way.
Denton Branch Falls
Denton Branch Falls sits near the North Carolina state line in Tate City, within the Southern Nantahala Wilderness. Over two miles, the hike passes three free-falling waterfalls under 40 feet, with the lower falls being the most impressive.
At the bottom, you’ll find a shaded wading creek and small pool with plenty of shade, making it an ideal escape on even the hottest summer days.
Dicks Creek Falls
Water rushes into multiple pools where Dicks and Waters Creek converge in the Chattahoochee National Forest near Dahlonega. A short walk from the road puts you right at the shoals, where the current slows into calm, sun-warmed pools perfect for wading.
Just remember to be careful of the rocks and pebbles. They’re slicker than they look.
Hemlock Falls
A moderate 1-mile trail leads to this 15-foot cascade and corresponding pool, one of the most scenic in the area. The falls drop into a wide basin, deep enough for a chilly cool down.
A taller 40-foot upper falls sits another mile upstream via rougher, unofficial trails, but that one’s for looking only, not swimming. While technically in Chattahoochee National Forest, Hemlock Falls is adjacent to Moccasin Creek State Park in Rabun County near Lake Burton.
Bridal Veil Falls
Beloved for its sliding rock, this is one of the most popular swimming spots in the Southeast.
Bridal Veil Falls waits at the far end of Tallulah Gorge, the last of five major waterfalls found along this dramatic stretch of the Tallulah River. To reach it, you’ll need a $5 vehicle fee plus one of 100 free daily permits to the Gorge Floor Trail, so plan ahead and arrive early!
Edge of the World
Dawsonville locals call this picturesque area the “Edge of the World” because of the rapids drop nearby. But for those looking to skip the whitewater, there’s an incredible natural swimming hole complete with sliding rocks that launch riders straight into the pools below.
Pair the pools with a morning hike at nearby Amicalola Falls, and you’ve got yourself a full day of North Georgia adventure.
Pro Tip: Bring an inflatable tube and lazily float the deeper stretches all afternoon. While it’s a popular location, there’s plenty of room for spreading out to float.
Fall Branch Falls
Situated near Blue Ridge, this double waterfall drops in a series of cascades before culminating in a 30-foot plunge into a deep pool where dogs and their humans can delight in a swim.
The half-mile round-trip hike is short but steep, so watch your footing on the way down (sturdy shoes are a must!). Also, you’ll want to arrive early because this one draws a crowd on weekends.
Poole’s Mill
Just downstream from a circa 1901 covered bridge in Cumming, Poole’s Mill Falls offers a gentler kind of waterfall experience. It’s a shallow, 10-foot cascade and natural rock slide on Settingdown Creek. Is it a less dramatic plunge? Yes, but it’s also perfect for an all-day splash session.
The wide, shallow shoals make this one of the most family-friendly stops on this list. Bring a change of clothes to enjoy the playground and covered pavilion just steps away.
Know before you go
In addition to making a game plan, there are a few other things you can do to make your swimming day even more memorable.
Water shoes are worth packing no matter which falls you choose; nearly every trail on this list involves some combination of slick rocks, creek crossings, or uneven footing. And while a few spots are gentle enough for an inflatable tube or a lazy float, others have rockier basins better suited to wading and quick dips than lounging.
The Peach State is known for its pop-up rain showers, and trail conditions can change after storms. It’s always worth a quick check of current conditions before you commit to the drive (and the hike!).
