Panther Creek Falls-Clarkesville, GA – 7.25 mi – Experienced Hikers Only

Let's take a hike to Panther Creek Falls!

PLEASE BE ADVISED: the trail was reopened by the Forest Service for hikers mid-year 2022 after being closed for an extended period of time due to damage received during a Hurricane. The trail is in the process of being restored and bridges are being rebuilt. Be prepared for some water crossings. There may also be trail deviations due to erosion, downed trees, and general lack of maintenance. Please consider all of this and read the Forestry Service link below as well as the AllTrails comments before making a decision to join this hike.

That said, Panther Creek Falls is a 7.25 mile out and back that is easily one of the finest waterfall hikes in N. Georgia. Given the unknowns mentioned, I would suggest bringing hiking polls if you have them and a small towel as it will be needed after removing our shoes/socks for the water crossing(s).

I put the hike at 4.5 hours, but it may run a bit longer depending on the experience level of the group and how much time we want to spend at the base of the falls. I also suggest packing a lunch or substantial snack to enjoy while we are there. Also, this is a great spot to take a dip in the water if so inclined.

Our groups pace is about 2.25 to 2.5 mph. Not a sprint, but not a crawl either. Particularly on a trail like this one.

We will meet at the sign to the trailhead which is across the street from the parking lot. The small main parking can fill up quickly on weekends on as this is a popular hike so you may want to carpool if that is an option. Sorry, I don’t arrange carpools but please feel free to use the meetup comment posts to do so if you would like.

I believe there is a parking fee or $4 or $5 and suggest bringing cash as I don’t think online payment is an option.

The map link with the pin in the event will bring you to the right spot when using google maps. But just in case, the address is near 4061 Old Historic U.S.441, Clarkesville, GA 30523. Yeah, I know its different than the one listed in the Forest Service link, but trust me on this. After all, they work for the government and I don’t. 😊

Below are some helpful links. Of course and as always, if you have any questions in advance please let me know and I will do my best to answer them.

AllTrails and AtlantaTrails (general info about the trail itself) & USDA link regarding trail conditions:

https://www.atlantatrails.com/hiking-trails/panther-creek-falls/

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/georgia/upper-falls-via-panther-creek-trail

Forest Service - USDA

Hope to see you there, and of course please remember that you will be participating entirely at your own risk as Suwanee Take-a-Hikers assumes absolutely no liability (nada, zero, zilch, zip, jack squat) for adverse events which may occur during meetups.