Yessssss! Beautiful trail, beautiful waterfalls.... Be careful because there are many tree roots and rocks. It was definitely worth the 1hr drive from Gwinnett. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

Such an amazing hike! It was a very easy 2.5 miles back and forth total! We brought our dog and it was very friendly for him, there's some trails you can take for more adventure and it's absolutely so much fun! We came at 8am, the trail was empty, I recommend a good early sunrise adventure with friends to beat the crowd! 20/10 recommend :) Parking is only $4! read more

See all

This was one of my favorite hikes in the area. It starts out paved and then is mostly dirt the rest of the way. On the way to the falls it is mostly downhill so it's uphill on the way back. There are several viewing areas next to the waterfalls and it's definitely beautiful and worth the trek. The parking lot is not huge but we didn't have any issues finding a spot on a weekday. There is a pay station in the parking lot to pay for a pass and they accept credit cards. read more

See all

This is a very great hike. Well worth the reward of a waterfall. It's 2 miles total. There's a lot of loose rock so wear padded shoes. There's an incline here and there but nothing terrible. A great area to hike if you're on vacation in Helen or if you're looking to do something over the weekend. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

See all

One of my sisters was in town this past weekend. We ere able to tag this easy 1 mile out, 1 mile back hike into our trip to Helen. I tend to prefer much longer hikes, but this was perfect as this sister is not in the best health. This is a great hike to tag into a trip to Helen "Germantown". Parking is somewhat limited, but at 3PM on a a Saturday there were still two spots available in April. The lush April Vegetation does cover much of the upper falls. That said it is still a pretty cool sight. read more

Easy hike for a 5yo and 2.5yo. Well paved and not too steep/rocky these two had a BLAST heading towards the falls. I enjoyed not having to carry the little one. We got to the boardwalk - which the 2 yo calls a bridge and we sat there marveling at the falls. They stopped a 2 yo in his tracks so you know they have to be pretty stunning. The trek back was good. Because there were no steep inclines it was no trouble for the two. All in all. Good hike. Easy. Family friendly. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Sign - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

See all

The walk down could be treacherous for those not used to hiking. Lots lots of rocks and roots but well worth the hike! read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Sweetie cooling off at the falls - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

My favorite hike around Helen!! The hike was perfect distance and the views were incredible!

REVIEW UPDATE - Only for the repaired viewing area! Some years ago there were two available viewing areas to see two distinct waterfalls here at Dukes Creek falls trail. While the viewing area to the largest fall here at Dukes (y'know, the big one that is somewhat covered by vegetation....seen better in the winter when most of the leaves fall off) has always stayed in place, they've finally gotten around to repairing the platform for the smaller of the two falls. Sure, you could still kinda see the fall from the first, lower platform, and others have maneuvered themselves to the blocked waterfall by hopping off of the first (I wouldn't recommend that if you don't know what you're doing...even if you do). Ultimately it's good to be able to get yourself close to the falls again, because hearing the deafening roar and feeling the splatter of water on your skin is part of the experience that has been missed here. The trail is as family friendly as can be. In and out, it's about 2 miles round trip and the payoff is great once you reach it. Take a moment and soak it all in. read more

See all

Excellent trail. It's short and most covered by tree canopies. I'd say it's a pretty easy trail with little difficulty. The end of the trail is a waterfall that is just amazing. Definitely recommend visiting if you enjoy the outdoors. Pretty well kept. read more

We spent about an hour hiking from the parking lot down to the falls and back. The views were beautiful, but I was disappointed in the level of vandalism on the trees and garbage/trash on the grounds. The first little bit is accessible till the first viewing platform, but after that it's stairs and off-road. It's a short and easy drive from downtown Helen, GA. read more

See all

This was an awesome find for me and my boys, ages 8 and 4. There is plenty of parking and a fee station (honor system). There are bathrooms available as well, in the parking lot. The trail was not strenuous for my kiddos and both had no trouble navigating. The view of the waterfall was worth it. There are several spots on the platform for pictures. Definitely worth the trip! read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

See all

I really enjoyed this place as it has a nicely paved road to the trail front. The bathrooms are super nasty so I suggest you use it prior to getting there. I opened up the men's room and saw 1000 flies on the walls and nasty smell. I slammed the door so fast!! lol The beginning of trail is nicely paved and then it gets a wooden platform which is a bit slippery since it was wet, so be careful. I was wearing brand new adidas trail running shoes and it was still a tad bit slippery for me. The trail is nice and wide and some parts are very smooth of gravel where you can do a nice jog on. A few parts had some uneven rocks point out of the ground so be careful as always where your walking. It's a decent 2.2 miles round trip trip hike so some decent comfortable walking shoes is a must!! I went to the lower platform and could see a real steep waterfall that looks like 100 feet up. The upper platform was closed due to tree damage. You could see some parts of the platform compromised as the tree feel on it. The bottom beams were compromised as well. I saw a dumb young couple who decided to ignore the close sign and hop over the fence and was sitting on the upper platform where there was no railing because of the damages. I was praying that the platform didn't give and them falling deep down in front of the waterfall onto the rocks because your prolly not going to see me jump down the cliff and rocks to save them. Lol There is also a $4 parking fee that is on the honor system. Luckily for me, the park ranger came back 5 minutes after I dropped my money into the mailbox. The park ranger was checking every car to see if they had paid. Lol read more

See all

This was a decently challenging hike but my 6 year old kept up the pace the whole time. We even went off the beaten path a few times to check out the less traveled areas and down to the creek. It was absolutely beautiful. Very busy trail area with natural and boardwalk areas closer to the falls. We saw people of all ages. Highly recommend! read more

See all

We had a really nice time hiking this trail. The falls were lovely. Just note that there's not a lot of parking and it cost $4, cash or check. read more

See all

I made it to the bottom and back. The falls trail is well maintained and perfect for beginners. The falls are spectacular following the heavy rain bands from Hurricane Delta. read more

Picturesque trail with decent parking. Beautiful mountain and waterfall views. Perfect for both long and short hikes.

The admission price was $4 per vehicle. It's an honor system as you have to put money in an envelope, seal the envelope and drop it in a box, then grab the tag for the car. There won't be a person overseeing this process btw... The trails are naturally rugged with stones, tree roots, and branches. These trails aren't marked to give you a clear direction to the waterfall's source. I'm saying this because my friend and I chose a trail that dead ended. We then had to pick between a hiking trail versus the trail to the waterfall. Well, it looked like a hiking trail since it led away from the water. The way we made it to the waterfall was taking a right as we approached the beginning of this area with a sign giving you the miles. We followed this until it ended and took a left. Do not take a right as this dead-ended. We chose this right turn because we decided to go the opposite flow of the water flow (upstream) so that we could catch the waterfall. But no... Take a left instead. At one point the path will split to a left and right. Take the right path to get to the waterfall as the left path will take you away from the water and to the hiking trail. Parking was pretty available since this place isn't popping by any means. It's the lesser tourist area, but then again, we arrived around 6 PM where there could have just been less people. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

Excellent trail and waterfalls! Unfortunately, it's not handicap accessible (which is applicable to most of downtown Helen in general). Pictures included show the trail signage, trail walk, views, and falls. 1.1 mile hike to the falls, making it roughly 2.5 mile round trip hike. Plan to be on it about an hour! read more

See all

Very easy hike with amazing views. It took us about 45 minutes to hike down to the base of the fall. As you're hiking, you can hear the sounds of the creek and nature around you. The first part of the hike was paved but as you walked further along the trail was natural. Parking was available and we paid $5 cash only park fee. read more

See all

This is a great hike that isn't too bad time wise or mileage wise. The parking area has a decent amount of parking, but it does get crowded on holidays or weekends. There's a bathroom available at the parking area as well. There's a donation fee to pay to park just fill out the paper and put the receipt in your windshield. The hike itself is downhill on the way down to the falls and uphill on the way back, but isn't too strenuous. We came on a day it down poured on our way down which ended up giving us the falls to ourselves once we got to the bottom even though the parking lot was packed. Everyone turned around or waited out the rain in their vehicles. The hike is a nice path and well defined. We found our way straight to the falls platform. The entire falls are somewhat hard to photograph in the summer with the trees full and lush, but it is very gorgeous in person. Once we got to the platform there was one family down below playing in the water and no one else around for a good while. If you're looking for a decent hike with a great waterfall that won't take all day this is it. It's very close to Helen so you'll have plenty to do before or after this hike. read more

See all

Great place. Easy hike, plenty of parking. It's a little over a mile to the falls. A must see if your in the area. read more

We went in the fall of 2022 twice. The trail is beautiful, easy, and 1.1 miles to a waterfall. Parking can be a little bit of a challenge as it's small, but we got lucky and found a parking spot both times without a problem. Parking is $5 per vehicle (cash). There is a bathroom available, but it's more like a port o potty in a building, however walk towards it to see a beautiful Mountain View begin it. Will definitely be going back. read more

See all

This trail is an awesome down and back. The climb is not too extreme, but running or jogging could make this hike challenging. Dogs, kids are are welcome. The views of the falls at the bottom make this well worth it read more

See all

I visited last Saturday with a group of friends. The parking was free and easy to find around noon. Dukes Creek Falls Trail is great for beginners or people with more of a sedentary lifestyle. I am more of an indoor exercise type of girl, (think Zumba or Cycling) and nature is not my thing, but I participated with my girls and it was not that bad! I felt that the walk was manageable overall. I felt proud once I completed the 2.5 mile trip. We went as a group and it was fairly easy going down, yet a little more difficult going up after seeing the water. The signage made it easy to know where you're going. There were people there of all ages and you could definitely walk at your own pace and take breaks as needed. The sounds of nature were so relaxing and the water was beautiful. We got some great photos. Overall, I enjoyed the experience more than I expected too. I recommend going at least once if you're visiting. read more

See all

We came here in late October so the leaves and branches had come down quite a bit; I imagine it would be much more scenic in Spring when everything is green and bloomed. Nonetheless, enjoyed this quick 2-mile roundtrip hike, and the waterfalls at the end made it that much more appealing! DISCLAIMER: I am ONLY giving this trail 3 stars and not 4 because it's label as a "moderate" hike, but I'd say its VERY EASY. It's almost all leveled and, again, only 1.1 miles each way. It's family and dog friendly, too, which is not a problem - of course - but does slow down the hike as the trail narrows at times and it becomes harder to pass large, slower groups. Now back to those waterfalls... very beautiful! There's one tall (main) waterfall and a couple smaller ones surrounding it. Very beautiful and peaceful. I'd definitely go back! read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

See all

Come early. If you arrive in the afternoon, get ready to park away from the parking lot, on the side of the road, since it is a very small parking lot. I was quite surprised to see it that packed. I've been to Dukes Creek Falls many years ago. I remember it being a short hike, no crazy tree roots like Raven Cliff Falls (BTW, I tripped over a tree root hiking there prior to Dukes Creek, it was my third time there and this happened, I was more embarrassed and yes, I got a sprain ankle, and yes, I went hiking at Dukes Creek Falls with a sprained ankle). It is a mile hike to see Dukes Creek Falls. You will be on a small overlook to see the waterfall which has been covered with vegetation but still you can still see its beauty. Because we arrived in the afternoon, there was already a family there. I was a little disappointed that they stayed in that area for a while and really didn't move at all. The gate towards the other overlook was locked but I saw people over there. I remember being at both overlooks in the past. The hardest part of the trail is probably going back because you have to back uphill to get back. There is a dirtroad turn which is a sharp right and isn't as wide as it was halfway when going to the waterfalls. I will come again, early. To get better parking space. And view of the waterfalls. 50/2017 read more

See all

We saw a black bear here today. No joke!!! I got a pic :-) There is a set of steps leading to the trail from the parking lot. At the base of those stairs are a couple of picnic tables where we found an adolescent black bear wandering around looking for food. Thought number one: Where the heck is his mother! Thought number two: I can most certainly outrun a few of the folks I see on the trail, so I'm gonna get close to get a good pic. My hiking partner Jamarcus T called me a damn fool about eight times after that, but I got a super cool close up pic and he didn't. Nanny-nanny-boo-boo! Note to children: That was dumb; don't do what uncle Richard did! STATISTICS Elevation Loss: 390 feet downhill, but don't worry, you'll gain it all back on the return trip! Height of waterfall: 150 feet Distance: 1.8 miles round trip Time to hike in & out: 1.5 hours Difficulty: Moderately Easy Parking fee: $3/car Map of trail: http://www.emapstore.com/sc_blue_ridge_mountains/Hike/dukes-creek-waterfall-trail-map3.jpg WHAT TO BRING It's a relatively short hike, so one bottle of water and maybe a candy bar would be more than sufficient supply, unless you are prone to getting lost or falling and not being able to get up! HOW TO GET THERE From The Mall of Georgia Take I-985 North to GA-52 (Lula Road) approximately 28 miles Turn LEFT on GA-52 towards Clermont Turn RIGHT on GA-283 (Holly Springs Road) Turn RIGHT on GA-11/129N (Cleveland Hwy) Continue through Cleveland Georgia until you reach GA-75 Alternate Turn RIGHT on GA-75a and drive for approx. 6 miles until you reach GA-348 Turn LEFT on GA-348 (Richard B. Russell Scenic Hwy) Drive approximately 1.5 miles to Duke's Creek Falls trailhead entrance on the left. FINAL THOUGHTS I love, love, love nature, but I do wish park officials would cut down two key trees near the falls to improve the view from the observation deck. There are a series of three switchbacks leading to the falls. Along the middle switchback you will hear and see a rushing cascade about 120 feet below. When you see a large boulder next to the trail, you will notice a steep path leading to an unnamed waterfall. This is NOT Duke's Creek Falls, but it is beautiful nonetheless and well worth the death defying steepness of the path leading to it. A really nice bonus with better photo ops than the featured main falls. Great place to spend an hour or two, especially if you happen to be visiting nearby Helen, GA. read more

See all

Excellent trail! This is about 1.5 miles each direction. Clean, well maintained (well, there was some trees partially blocking the trail, but hey, that's nature!). People along the way were very friendly. At the end of the trail, the overlook decks were in good shape and felt sturdy. It was obvious that the state does a good job in keeping everything preserved and updated. I would definitely come back for another visit. read more

Great hike for beginners, families with small children and all nature lovers. The end result will be worth it, as it is a 2 mile round trip. Waterfall adventurers won't be disappointed as well. The journey starts at a mountain view parking lot with an entrance sign showing there is a donation fee to park with instructions on how to. Conveniently, there is a 1 stall per gender restroom to accommodate you before/after your hike. There's also some picnic benches for use, if you choose, and just past those benches the trail begins. The trail descends towards Dukes Creek Falls. You will actually hear the rushing water down hill very clearly as you start your journey down. You would be able to catch a glimpse of the highest level of Dukes Creek Falls from the wooden stairs at the beginning of your walk. Which makes it much more exciting to continue the adventure down the trail. The trail was a zig zag route that ran along rushing water and even a mini waterfall along the way at one point. The view did not disappoint at all. The trail was wide enough for 2 way traffic but it did get slightly narrow as you got closer to the falls but nothing major (just be courteous and mindful at all times of others needs). Once you start walking on the wooden deck at the end of the trail, there will be 2 views to observe the waterfall. There's a lower deck and an upper deck, and OMG both decks were breathtaking and so near the waterfall that you can feel the mist from the waterfall. The upper deck had the best view of the top of the 2 waterfalls that joins together at the lower deck view. If bringing snacks and sandwiches please make sure to clean up after yourself because nature is too precious to litter on, there will be limited seating as there is only 1 bench to share with others on each deck. But lots of space for the selfie takers so snap on! After you've taken in all Dukes Creek Falls has to offer, don't forget you will be ascending back towards the parking lot. Gears to keep in mind for this hike: 1. Hiking boots were useful as there were a good distance of rugged terrain, rocks, roots, and a few muddy puddles to walk over (don't wear your nice shoes, that's for sure). 2. Trek sticks or walking sticks for anyone with bad knees (we had a few people comment that it would've been useful for them as they saw us utilizing ours). But of course, these are just suggestions as we saw kids and adults without these gears and made it out just fine. Also, don't forget water to hydrate! In conclusion, Dukes Creek Falls will be my family's go-to waterfall escape when we need a refreshing waterfall adventure. I would recommend this place to everyone and I hope you will enjoy it as much as we did! read more

See all

This is a nice brisk walk downhill for about a mile before you get to the falls overlook. The view is absolutely breathtaking and is wonderful to just kind of sit down and relax and listen to the roar of the falls. As far as difficulty it isn't very. The downhill portion is super easy, but of course the trek back is a little tougher. It isn't very well marked but easy enough to follow. Definitely go check this out if you're in the mood for a short hike that isn't too tough. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Outlook behind public restrooms. - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

Camped in an area near here (raven cliff falls) and hiked here. It's beautiful and shaded. Lots of great falls and creeks and critters.

Fabulous waterfall! Easy hike! Only thing I wish I would have known before hand is that there isn't a swimming hole. But we did find a nice area to splash around in on our way back up to the parking area. read more

See all

What a fabulous 2 mile hike. The weather in north GA last week was so nice. This hike takes you down to forest floor on leveled, wide trails. Beautiful falls. Smaller than most, but stunning nonetheless. The observation decks at fall level were the closest you will find in the mountains, creating a misty, ethereal feel. Make time for this shorter hike if you are in the area. read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - More waterfall pics. - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

Such a beautiful trail leading to an incredibly beautiful waterfall! The trail was clean and everyone we passed was so friendly! Highly recommend especially for first timers! read more

Dukes Creek Falls Trail - Waterfall at Dukes Creek - Hiking Near Me - Cleveland, Georgia

See all

Scenic and an easy 1 mile hike. Once you park, you may encounter the smell of the restrooms and it smells. But past that you will walk into a peaceful forest. It was 68 degrees and cloudy, which made this an extremely nice walk(hike). Having just left another state park across the street, completing a 3 mile walk, this is a must do if you are in the area. Dukes Creek - add it to your list and get to it. read more

It cost $4 to park, restroom not so great, bring hand sanitizer! It is a short mile hike to see the falls, the trail is well kept and safe. Dogs must be leashed. read more

See all

Short switchback trail that ends at falls where there are pools and falls.To swim in the pools , you need to jump over the rail and go off the boardwalk. read more

Easy trail to follow. Did a photoshoot session here with little gear with no trouble. The only thing was parking instruction were weird to follow and I doubt other people even paid for parking read more

We didn't have to pay! We arrived before noon to easy parking and no big crowds. Easy hike down, although watch those roots. Two falls coming into one, beautiful. I did read an older review where some foliage was cleared and they could see the full falls. This needs to be done again. One of the viewing decks was closed due to a fallen tree. read more

See all