After a night filled with thunderstorms, we woke to moody skies and a landscape transformed by the rain. The forest was lush and vibrant, with water running through the undergrowth and the waterfalls flowing strongly against the dark, rugged rock.
Located just outside Stepantsminda in northern Georgia, the Gveleti Waterfalls are an easy addition to any Caucasus road trip. There are two waterfalls to explore, each reached by a short hike through the surrounding mountain landscape.
Gveleti Big Waterfall
We started with the Big Waterfall, following the trail through the damp forest and gradually making our way towards the sound of rushing water. The path leads to a dramatic cascade tucked between towering rock walls, with the surrounding greenery adding plenty of colour and texture to the scene.
The overcast conditions were ideal for photography. Without harsh sunlight, the wet rocks, vivid foliage and flowing water were easier to capture, creating a moody atmosphere that suited the landscape perfectly.
Gveleti Small Waterfall
After exploring the main waterfall, we retraced our steps and took the left-hand path towards the Small Waterfall. It's worth making the detour rather than heading straight back to the car, offering a second perspective on the area's forest and flowing water.
Following the overnight rain, the trail felt especially alive, with rich greens and the sound of water throughout the surrounding forest. The smaller cascade actually ended up being our favourite and provides a different subject to photograph with the larger basin area.
Hiking Information
The Gveleti Waterfalls make a short but rewarding outing from Stepantsminda, particularly if you're looking for something less demanding between longer hikes in the Caucasus.
Location: Gveleti, near Stepantsminda, Georgia
Hike: Visit the Big Waterfall first, return along the trail, then take the left-hand path to the Small Waterfall. Hand-made signposts along the route.
Difficulty: Relatively easy, with some uneven and potentially slippery sections
Parking: Paid parking costs around 5 GEL. Continue a little further up the access road to look for small free pull-off areas, where available.
After heavy rain, take extra care on the trails and around the waterfalls, as rocks and muddy sections can become slippery.
A Perfect Recovery Day
Not every day in the mountains needs to involve a long ascent or an early-morning summit. Gveleti is a great option for a recovery day, combining a manageable walk with beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for photography.
For us, the timing after the thunderstorms made the visit even better. The moody skies, saturated greens and powerful waterfalls were a reminder that some of the best photographic conditions come after the weather has passed.
If you're staying in Stepantsminda, the Big and Small Gveleti Waterfalls are well worth adding to your itinerary.
