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DeSoto Falls Recreation Area
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DeSoto Falls Recreation Area

Dahlonega, Georgia

DeSoto Falls is one of the easiest real waterfalls to reach with little kids in the national forest north of Dahlonega — the lower falls sits only about a quarter mile from the trailhead on a natural forest path. The upper falls adds real distance, so with toddlers, call the lower falls the destination and the picnic tables the reward. The Forest Service posts waterfall-danger warnings for a reason: keep kids off the wet rocks and ledges. This is a good one for getting outside without turning the walk into a major expedition.

Before you go

Best time to visit: Year-round; fullest flow in winter and spring

Worth packing

  • Sturdy shoes
  • Water bottles
  • Snacks

Good to know

  • Parking
  • Dog-friendly
  • Picnic tables
  • Trails
From local families

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