Date: 02/27/2026
Name: Tabor Falls & Nearby Features
Distance: 6.5
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Total Climbing Elevation: 883
Type: Loop
Notes: This exploratory hike around Tabor Falls aimed to confirm routes and locate key scenic features. Recent rains left trails and roads muddy. Starting at the end of Sellers Dr. (FS 89A gate), we followed a mix of Forest Service roads, old logging routes, faint trails, and some bushwhacking. Logging activity has significantly altered the northern section since 2023. We navigated to an old railroad spur and crossed the Middle Fork Broad River, briefly exploring and wading into the beautiful rock and brick culvert before heading downstream. About 0.3 miles along the river, we located the scenic Sandy Bottom Waterfall but did not descend to its bottom due to steep terrain. Continuing downstream and failing to find an easy crossing, we waded across the river and climbed a long, moderately steep draw to reconnect with FS roads. From there, we followed an orange-blazed trail to Tabor Falls, crossing a creek twice. The main falls feature an impressive 50-foot drop, though access to the base requires a risky scramble. Attempts to continue to Lower Tabor Falls were abandoned due to hazardous terrain, but we did easily locate Upper Tabor Falls in a Mountain Laurel thicket. The hike ended with a steady 0.8-mile climb on a well-designed switchback trail. Overall, the route is moderately difficult to difficult, with risks including water crossings, steep climbs, and narrow, exposed paths. One surprising bonus to this hike was seeing a good number of Trout Lilies in bloom. Cooler seasons are best for this hike, and while the route was successful, further exploration and refinement is possible. Today's Hikers: Heather Wall, Jack Treadman & Mike Bell.
AllTrails Link: Tabor Falls & Nearby Features near Mount Airy, GA
Additional Search Terms: February