Visiting Anna Ruby Falls with a Dog
As we traveled through Helen, Georgia, we were excited to discover that we could visit Anna Ruby Falls with our dog.
Anna Ruby Falls is a spectacular natural attraction nestled in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in North Georgia. This unique double waterfall is formed by two creeks, Curtis Creek and York Creek, which come together to form Smith Creek at the base of the falls.
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I enjoy hiking and visiting waterfalls, and it’s even better when I can bring my dog along on the trail. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Anna Ruby Falls with a dog.
Visiting Anna Ruby Falls with a Dog
Dogs are welcome at Anna Ruby Falls as long as they are leashed, well-behaved, and under control at all times.
Dogs are allowed in outdoor areas but are not permitted inside the visitor center or restrooms. You are also responsible for cleaning up after your dog.
Starting From the Parking Area
We visited Anna Ruby Falls on a Monday during the first week of October. There was plenty of parking when we arrived. Accessible parking spaces are near the visitor center, while the larger-vehicle parking area is farther away.
From the parking area, you’ll find the visitor center on the right and the trailhead on the left. Vending machines are located between the two. The visitor center also has a gift shop and restrooms.
Since dogs aren’t allowed inside the visitor center, I headed straight to the trailhead with Snoopy.
Anna Ruby Falls Trail
- Length: Approximately 0.8 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Moderately strenuous due to some steep sections
- Surface: Paved trail
- Estimated time: 45–75 minutes, including time at the observation decks
The Anna Ruby Falls Trail follows Smith Creek. Just past the trailhead, the paved path begins climbing uphill. Smith Creek runs along the right-hand side, and you can hear the water flowing as you walk.
During our visit, we noticed a sign warning about yellow jackets in the area. Keep an eye out for warning signs and watch where you step.
Beyond this section, the trail descends slightly toward a bridge crossing the creek. There’s a trash can before the bridge, making it a convenient place to dispose of your dog’s waste if needed.
After crossing the bridge, the trail climbs uphill again. This section is steeper than the first incline, but benches along the way provide places to rest if you need a break.
The scenery along this stretch is beautiful, with Smith Creek flowing beside the trail and smaller cascades adding to the view. You’ll probably want to stop for a few photos, as I did. Just remember to stay on the paved trail.
Observation Decks at Anna Ruby Falls
Eventually, you’ll reach the lower observation deck, where you can enjoy a view of the entire waterfall. You can also see the upper observation deck from here.
If the upper deck is crowded, you can take your time at the lower deck and wait for the crowds to thin out before continuing.
Next, cross the second bridge to reach the upper observation deck. The bridge is supported by a stack of rocks, adding an interesting feature to the surrounding scenery.
The upper observation deck is spacious, with benches where you can sit and relax while enjoying the view of Anna Ruby Falls.
From here, the waterfalls look massive and powerful as the water rushes down the rock face. It’s a wonderful spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy the sound of the rushing water.
Take your time here, especially if you’re visiting from a state where waterfalls like these aren’t common. It’s worth lingering a little longer to appreciate the scenery.
Returning to the Trailhead
When you’re ready to leave, return to the trailhead along the same paved path.
This time, you’ll be heading downhill on sections that were uphill on the way in. Take your time and watch your footing, especially on the steeper sections.
Directions to Anna Ruby Falls From Helen
From downtown Helen, follow GA-75 North for approximately one mile. Turn right onto GA-356 East and continue for about 1.3 miles. Turn left at the Anna Ruby Falls sign, then follow the road for approximately 3.6 miles through the Unicoi State Park area.
Continue past the Unicoi gatehouse and follow the signs to the Anna Ruby Falls gatehouse and visitor parking area.
After turning onto GA-356 East, you’ll pass Fred’s Famous Peanuts stand on the left. It’s worth considering a stop on your way back from the falls if you’d like to pick up some peanuts.
Admission and Fees for Anna Ruby Falls
- Admission: $6 for visitors ages 16 and older
- Children: Free for ages 15 and younger
- Golden Age Passport: Free admission
- Georgia State Park Pass: Not accepted
You can pay the admission fee when you arrive at the site.
Anna Ruby Falls is operated by FIND Outdoors, a nonprofit organization focused on outdoor recreation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. Visitor admission fees help maintain the site and trails, support educational programs and visitor services, and provide outdoor recreation opportunities.
Regular operating hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the last ticket sold at 5 p.m.
Anna Ruby Falls is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Before your visit, check the official Anna Ruby Falls website for the latest information about weather-related delays, closures, and other changes to operating hours.
Snoopy wasn’t the only dog on the trail that day. We saw at least five other dogs, ranging from a small Dachshund to a large Standard Poodle.
I love dog-friendly places like Anna Ruby Falls, where dogs are welcome on the trails and can enjoy the outdoors alongside their humans. It’s always a bonus when we can explore beautiful natural places together without having to leave Snoopy behind.
