When you have kids, it's important to know whether or not a hike or galavant through the woods will result in epic meltdowns and carrying four small children back down a rugged trail....we can't promise you won't need to carry your children during your visit to Hemlock Falls, but we can assure you it's a stellar trail to visit with your family. We consider Hemlock Falls a family friend waterfall and it can be found in the same neck of the woods as Moccasin Creek State Park.
What is the trail like to Hemlock Falls?
Hemlock Falls is approximately 2 miles round trip. The trailhead is well marked by a cool rock. Just behind it, your kids will love checking out the frog eggs, tadpoles, and frogs in the large, muddy puddle you encounter first. After they explore a bit, carry on down the path along the river. It is covered in many roots, but otherwise not a challenging hike, more like a gentle walk.
You will eventually get to a rock overhang and your kids will enjoy exploring there as well. You may even want to snap a photo or two together.
That rock is about your halfway point. After it, you will come to a foot bridge and this marks you're two thirds of the way there!
The path will begin to increase in rigor for a bit here as you go up some rocks and then through some muddy patches beside some shoals...but don't worry, you're nearly there!
Can you swim at Hemlock Falls?
As you approach Hemlock Falls, you will hear the rushing water as you descend down rock steps. If you visit in the summer, you will likely be ready for a cold plunge - and that's what is available at this family friendly waterfall! For a video of the hike there and the fun you can have swimming, check this out!
Since Hemlock Falls is quite shady, it stays very cold and is the epitome of a mountain waterfall! There is a tiny sandy area to the right where you might find a decent log to sit on and enjoy lunch. Otherwise, there are lots of rocks to sit on and enjoy a meal as well as a view of the falls and your kids playing.
This waterfall swimming hole isn't exceptionally deep. At it's deepest spot it may be 4 feet. It is not a sandy bottom, but is rocky instead.
Directions to Hemlock Falls.
From Clayton, Georgia take Hwy 76 west 11 miles. Turn left on GA 197 and go 3.7 miles to the turnoff for Hemlock Falls Trailhead (this is marked by a brown sign). From the trailhead, follow the trail about one mile up the left side of the creek, crossing the creek on a wooden bridge shortly before reaching the falls.
Parking at this location is free.
Did you visit Hemlock Falls after checking out our post? Let us know in the comments or tag us on the 'gram when you visit: @kindle_togetherness #kindletogetherness