Tallulah Falls
One of the oldest geological features in North America, the gorge is approximately two miles long and 1,000 feet deep from its highest to lowest point. Because the Tallulah River, which carved the canyon, winds and twists, only approximately a mile and a half of the chasm and four of its five waterfalls are visible from the overlooks. But what a sight! No wonder it earned its nickname of "the Grand Canyon of the East." The names and heights of the five waterfalls are as follows:
Bridal Veil may be viewed only by hiking to the bottom of the gorge. Permits from the state park (available at the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center) are required to hike into the Gorge. Only 100 are issued every day, depending on weather and water releases. Anyone in poor health or unaccustomed to strenuous exercise should not attempt this hike. Please be sure to check with the park when planning a hiking trip. The average daily water flow of 35 - 40 cubic feet, or about 350 gallons, per second (cfs) makes the gorge a worthwhile visit any time. In addition, the lowered volume of water provides a perfect opportunity to hike to the bottom. However, to see the "Niagara of the South" at its most impressive, visits should be scheduled to coincide with the aesthetic (200 cfs) or whitewater boating (500 cfs on Saturday; 700 cfs on Sunday) water releases in the spring and fall. Like hiking? How about camping? Into mountain biking? These activities and more -- swimming, fishing, kayaking (during whitewater boating releases; for experienced kayakers ONLY, and tennis -- may be enjoyed at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Not up to strenuous activity? Take a leisurely stroll through the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center or the Georgia Heritage Association Center for the Arts. Relax on the beach by the 63-acre lake. Enjoy an outdoor meal at one of the picnic tables. Attend one of the many unusual and fun classes and events the state park and Heritage arts center sponsor (prior registration may be required). Or mosey your way through the quaint shops in the town (some right on the edge of the gorge). Why not plan a visit? To make the most of the trip, check out the schedule of classes, guided hikes, water releases and other events shown on the Special Events calendar or available by contacting the state park. Thanks to Tallulah Gorge State Park for providing detailed information. |
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In the late 1800s and early 1900s Tallulah Gorge with its five falls was one of the major attractions in the Southeast United States. Unfortunately, for various reasons, tourism declined over the years. Is it worth a visit today? Definitely! Read on to see why.