Anna Ruby Falls

Smithgall Woods State Park is a 5,800-acre mountain park in north Georgia near Helen that is known for its pristine forests, clear trout streams, and quiet, conservation-focused atmosphere. Donated to the state in 1994, the park protects part of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem and offers about 28 miles of hiking trails through hardwood forests, wetlands, and historic sites such as old gold-mining remnants and waterfalls. The park is especially famous for Dukes Creek, a premier trout stream managed as catch-and-release only, with fishing typically available by reservation on select days. Unlike many Georgia state parks, Smithgall Woods emphasizes low-impact recreation and features well-appointed creekside cottages rather than a large public campground.

On this hike, we drove a short distance from Fish Camp at Smithgall State Park to the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation area for a short hike to the waterfalls.  Anna Ruby Falls is a stunning twin waterfall located near Helen, Georgia, within the Chattahoochee‑Oconee National Forest. The falls are formed where Curtis Creek and York Creek converge before joining the Chattahoochee River – creating two distinct, side-by-side cascades that drop approximately 153 feet in total. The area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and features a paved 0.8‑mile loop trail from the visitor center, making it accessible for families and hikers of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and interpretive signs explaining the local flora, fauna, and geology. Anna Ruby Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in northeast Georgia, especially in spring when the water flow is highest and the surrounding forest is lush and vibrant.