Smith Creek Trail to Anna Ruby Falls

The trail typically begins at Unicoi State Park. You'll find parking available there, though a parking fee may apply if you don't hold a Georgia State Park pass. Alternatively, you can access Anna Ruby Falls directly via a shorter, paved path from the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area, which also has parking.

You'll experience a diverse landscape, from fern-covered hardwood forests to rocky glacial deposits. The path includes steady descents, rustic wooden stairs, and crosses several small, mossy creeks. Be prepared for sections with steep hills and uneven terrain, especially the first two to three miles from Unicoi State Park, which are notably uphill. Some parts can be damp and slick, and you'll navigate winding switchbacks and dense tunnels of rhododendron and mountain laurel.

This trail is generally rated as moderate to difficult, with some sources describing it as strenuous. It's an 8.7-mile round trip with approximately 1,800 feet of elevation gain. You should wear appropriate footwear and carry plenty of water, especially for the uphill sections when starting from Unicoi State Park.

While the trail itself is generally dog-friendly, dogs are typically not allowed on the paved path leading directly to the falls at the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area, nor are they permitted at the falls viewing area itself. If you bring your dog, they must be kept on a leash on the Smith Creek Trail.

The trail offers mile after mile of quiet, sun-dappled North Georgia forest. The primary scenic reward is the destination: the stunning twin cascades of Anna Ruby Falls. These falls are formed by Curtis Creek (150 ft drop) and York Creek (50 ft drop) merging to form Smith Creek. Viewing platforms are available for a closer look.

Spring is particularly beautiful, with wildflowers blooming and mossy creeks at their most vibrant. Fall offers stunning foliage. While the trail can be hiked year-round, be mindful of potentially damp and slick conditions, especially after rain, and prepare for colder temperatures in winter.

There is a fee to access the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area (typically $3-5 per person). Additionally, if you start from Unicoi State Park, a parking fee may apply if you don't have a Georgia State Park pass. No specific hiking permits are mentioned for the Smith Creek Trail itself.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Old FSR 690 / No Trail Access, Smith Creek, and Abandoned FSR 690 trails.

Given the trail's length and elevation gain, you should bring plenty of water, appropriate hiking footwear, and snacks. Depending on the season, layers of clothing, rain gear, and insect repellent might also be useful.

The Smith Creek Trail is rated moderate to difficult due to its length (8.7 miles round trip) and significant elevation gain (1,800 feet). While adventurous families with older children or fit beginners might manage it, it's a more rigorous option than the shorter, paved trail directly to Anna Ruby Falls. For a less strenuous experience, consider the paved path from the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area.

The Smith Creek Trail offers a much more immersive and demanding journey, winding through nearly 9 miles of forest along a historic gold mining ditch. In contrast, the paved path from the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area is a short (0.4-0.8 mile), easy, and wheelchair-accessible route directly to the falls, suitable for all ages and abilities.