Yellow Jacket Falls

GPS for waterfall:  34.92766, -83.09023

Water source:  Crane Creek

Height:  approximately 30 feet (visible main drop only)

Yellow Jacket Falls was given its name by Rich Stevenson, who discovered a yellow jacket’s nest on his way to the base of the falls. Norm Arnold referred to this waterfall as Wagon Wheel Falls, for the large metal wheel rim found at the base.

From the side:

My friend, Bill, captured this image of the entire falls on our hike down to the base:

Also on Crane Creek, you will find Deadfall Falls, Prospector Falls, Crane Creek Falls, Secret Falls, and Lower Crane Creek Falls.  All of the waterfalls on Crane Creek are extremely difficult to reach (with the exception of Lower Crane Creek Falls), and should not be attempted by anyone who does not have a lot of experience in off-trail hiking and map reading.

One way to reach Crane Creek Falls  and Yellow Jacket Falls is to park along Cheohee Road (or Winding Stairs Road), at 34.92439, -83.08881, and bushwhack to the falls.  It is approximately half a mile one way, give or take, depending on your route.