We are really fortunate, living where we do, to be in a part of the country where the climate allows for outdoor activity all year long. We have all four seasons, but even in winter, it is a rare January that doesn’t have at least one nice weekend. To go along with the nice weather, we have some of the most beautiful scenery in the east, just to the north of us. The mountains of north Georgia are laced with dozens of hiking trails, winding for hundreds of miles through rugged mountain terrain, some leading to and around mountain lakes, others following crystal clear brooks and streams to waterfalls and scenic vistas.

Those of us who like to get out for a hike, with or without the dog, can find an endless selection of places in which to get away. I like to go to places where the dogs can run loose, both for their sake, and mine. People like to walk, but dogs like to run. It’s just a guess, but I’d bet a dog will travel 3-5 miles for every mile you do, when off the leash. For that reason, and because I don’t like to hold a leash, I look for places where they are not needed.

On a beautiful, mild Sunday last December, after 20 years in Atlanta, I finally went to Raven Cliff Falls, and I’ve got to tell you , I’m really sorry it took me so long. Raven Cliffs is a gem, and it’s easy to see why it is such a popular destination. I’m sure many of you reading this are familiar with Raven Cliffs, and know what I mean, but to any of you who have never been there, it’s worth the drive.

Raven Cliffs is located a few miles outside of Helen, in what is now the Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area. Raven Cliff Trail follows Dodd Creek for 2.5 miles through a forest of mixed hardwood and evergreen trees, ending at the falls.

Dodd Creek is a beautiful, clear stream, which cascades over and around rocks and boulders on its way downhill. Two smaller waterfalls break up the flow and provide an eye catching excuse to pause in your hike. Along the way the trail passes through thickets of mountain laurel and rhododendron, which form a canopy overhead as you walk.

As you near the cliffs, you can see them rising in the distance through the trees, towering more than 100 feet over the valley. At the base of the cliff the trail forks, the left fork crossing the creek and winding around for a better view of the lower falls. The right fork takes you to the top of the cliff, for a look at the upper falls and a stunning view in all directions.

Raven Cliff Trail is an easy walk, fairly level most of the way, with a short climb at the end. At 2.5 miles, it is long enough to allow groups of people to spread out. We were there in December, not a busy month, and although there were about 20 cars at the trailhead, we didn't see other people that often, except at the falls.

This is a great place for a family hike, easy enough for everyone. The dogs had a great time, chasing each other through the woods and running through the stream. About half of the people we saw had dogs, and they all seemed to be having a good time.

Getting to Raven Cliff Falls is easy. From Helen, take GA Highway 75 north for 1.5 miles to GA Alt 75 South. Go 2.3 miles to GA 348 North. This is the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Drive 3 miles on GA 348, passing the Dukes Creek Recreation Area, to where the road crosses Dukes Creek. Just past the creek, on the left, is a sign for Raven Cliff Falls and a road leading to the parking area.