Jacks River Falls is the best-known waterfall in the Cohutta Wilderness, the rugged federal wilderness north of Ellijay along the Georgia-Tennessee line. The river spills over a series of dark rock ledges into a wide pool between steep walls. No road comes close, so every way in is a hike of several miles.
It is a big day from Ellijay, but a rewarding one, and a good contrast to the busier falls on our waterfalls list.
Routes to the falls
| Trail | Distance | Creek crossings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beech Bottom Trail | About 10 miles round trip | 1 | Moderate |
| Rice Camp Trail | About 7 miles round trip | About 9 | Moderate |
| Horseshoe Bend Trail | About 6 miles round trip | 2 small | Moderate |
| Jacks River Trail from Dally Gap | About 8.5 miles one way | About 20 | Strenuous |
Distances are as listed by Cohutta Wilderness Trails, which compiles them from published sources. Check current conditions with the Forest Service before you go.
Beech Bottom Trail (recommended for most people)
The standard route follows an old roadbed on an easy grade, crosses Beech Bottom Creek once and then joins the Jacks River Trail for a short walk upstream to the falls. It is long but not technically difficult. Allow most of a day, and start early.
The Jacks River Trail
Coming down the river from Dally Gap means about twenty fords. It is a classic summer and early-fall trek for experienced hikers, but it is a poor choice after rain or in cold weather.
Rules in the falls area
- Day use only from April 1 through October 31 in the Beech Bottom and Jacks River Falls area. Camping is allowed at designated sites only from November 1 through March 31.
- Campfires and alcohol are banned year-round in the falls area.
- No permit or fee is currently required.
- Wilderness rules apply: no bikes or motorized equipment, and pack out everything you bring in.
Some nearby trails have been closed for storm damage since Hurricane Helene. The Hickory Ridge Trail and Rough Ridge Trail were closed by Forest Service order in July 2025. Confirm status with the Conasauga Ranger District at (706) 695-6736 before you plan a loop.
A logging railroad under your feet
Much of the Cohutta was logged hard in the early 20th century, and a logging railroad once followed the Jacks River. Parts of the Jacks River Trail use the old railbed, and you may still spot rusted spikes or cable along the river. The forest has grown back since the area became a designated wilderness in 1975.
Safety tips
- Read the water. A crossing that is knee-deep in August can knock you down after rain. If the river is muddy or running fast, turn back.
- Expect no cell service. Download a map and leave your plan with someone.
- Start early. Forest roads to the trailheads are slow gravel, and October days are short.
- Pack for a full day: water and a filter, food, a headlamp, a first-aid kit and a dry layer.
- Swim with care. The pool below the falls is a popular swimming hole in summer, but rocks are slick and currents can be strong.
Getting there
Trailheads are reached by gravel Forest Service roads north of Ellijay, near the Georgia-Tennessee line. Road conditions change after storms, so check the Forest Service trailheads page before you drive, and allow plenty of time.
Want a shorter outing in the same mountains? The Bear Creek Trail and its giant poplar are much closer to Ellijay, and Fort Mountain has easy trails with big views.
Sources and further reading
Facts in this article were checked against these sources on August 6, 2026. Hours, fees and seasons change, so confirm before you go.
