The waterfall is located on private property owned by Toccoa Falls College, a Christian liberal arts college.
The name Toccoa is derived from a Cherokee word meaning 'beautiful'.
In 1977, the Kelly Barnes Dam located above the falls failed, causing a catastrophic flood that resulted in 39 fatalities and significant damage to the college campus.
The waterfall is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A memorial to the 1977 flood victims is located on the college campus grounds.
Toccoa Falls is a 186-foot free-falling waterfall located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College in Northeast Georgia. The falls are taller than Niagara Falls by approximately 19 feet. The site is accessible via a short, flat, gravel-paved trail that runs along the Toccoa Creek. The waterfall originates from the confluence of several mountain streams. It is managed by Toccoa Falls College as a private park and nature preserve. The geological formation is characterized by a sheer drop over a granite cliff face.
The wooden footbridge located along the trail provides a clear, centered view of the entire waterfall drop.
Wear footwear with good traction, as the spray from the waterfall frequently keeps the base area wet and slippery.
Visit on a weekday to avoid campus traffic and peak weekend crowds.
Bring a small microfiber cloth to wipe camera lenses or glasses after viewing the falls up close.
Do not attempt to climb the rocks surrounding the waterfall base or enter the water, as these activities are prohibited for safety and conservation reasons.
The site may be closed during severe weather conditions or for specific college events; check the official college website prior to travel.
Maintain silence near the memorial areas on campus; stay on the marked path to protect the surrounding ecosystem.
