Access type
Public state-park trail. No reservation or gorge-floor permit is required for the rim trails. A parking fee is required. The gorge floor is a separate, very strenuous route requiring a free same-day permit and safety briefing.
Check-in or trailhead
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Begin at the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center. The official trail map describes the combined North and South Rim Trails as 3 miles round trip, with overlooks on both sides of the gorge.
Season & current access
Rim hiking is available across the year during park hours, subject to weather and posted access notices. Stair, gorge-floor and climbing access can close for heat, rain, scheduled water releases or wildlife protection.
Age, skill & route requirements
The official map rates the 3-mile rim route moderate, with mulch, exposed roots, inclines and stairs. The separate Hurricane Falls loop is difficult and includes 1,099 stairs; the separate gorge-floor route is very difficult and not recommended for children 8 or younger.
North and South Rim Trails: 3 miles round trip, moderate, about two hours. Stay on the rim route unless your group intentionally meets the separate stair or gorge-floor requirements.
Fit it into a wine weekend
Use the rim hike as the morning anchor, then cool down and eat before driving to a Tiger-area winery. Do not pair the very strenuous gorge-floor route with a rushed tasting schedule.
Official access or booking details ↗
Reviewed September 23, 2026. Use the official source for day-of access, conditions and availability.