Day Trips from Marietta
← All Marietta day tripsDay Trips from Marietta: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Marietta, GA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Marietta
Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Trailhead
NC 28747, USA
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Marietta, rated 4.9 stars by 438 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rainbow Falls
Grassy Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Marietta, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Little River Canyon Falls Park
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Just 1 hr 44 min from Marietta, rated 4.9 stars by 2,031 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Turtleback Falls
Lake Toxaway, NC 28747
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Marietta, rated 4.9 stars by 397 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Foster Falls Recreation Area
Sequatchie, TN 37374
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 1,451 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Just 1 hr 9 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 14,203 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rock Island State Park
Rock Island, TN 38581
Just 2 hrs 54 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 5,445 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Just 37 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 7,537 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer, TN 38585
Just 2 hrs 36 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 8,623 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gorges State Park
Sapphire, NC 28774
Just 2 hrs 44 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 1,455 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Just 1 hr 42 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 6,560 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Marietta, rated 4.8 stars by 2,454 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Marietta
What are the best waterfalls near Marietta, GA?
The best waterfalls near Marietta range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Marietta?
Some waterfalls near Marietta have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Marietta?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Marietta are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Marietta?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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