Providence Canyon State Park is called Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon”. It is one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia. We found it an amazing sight to see.
James and I stopped by Providence Canyon State Park on our way North to Massachusetts. We were driving from Florida North and wanted to take in as many sights as we could. Providence Canyon is located in the Western part of Georgia very close to the Alabama boarder and was our first stop along this journey.
The View
Providence Canyon State Park was all I was expecting it to be. It was just big enough to take a few hours break. We made the stop to stretch our legs and break up our travels. Our legs definitely got stretched. We enjoyed a gentle breeze as we walked the rim of the canyon. The upper rim give you a great birds eye view of the canyons. It is such a sight to see and a great place for a selfie.
History
It is thought that the canyon was created because of the way farmers worked the soil during the 1800’s. The farmers didn’t have the knowledge we have today regarding crop rotation, caring for the soil as to not deplete it of all of its nutrients and poor plowing practices. Therefore, the soil was damaged beyond repair. Today we have Providence Canyon State Park as a testament to it.
Best time to visit
A visit to Providence Canyon is amazing anytime of year, but it is especially nice in July and August when the rare Plumleaf Azalea’s are blooming. These Azaleas are summer bloomers and make for beautiful photos along the side of the colored canyon walls.
Providence Canyon is just over 1,000 acres and will amaze you with it’s geological formations. You will be amazed as you look at the canyon and realize you are in Georgia. You are not at Arizona’s Grand Canyon or at one of Utah’s many National Parks. Providence Canyon is 150ft deep. The exposed soil is comprised of 43 different shades of red, orange, pink and purple. Make sure to have your camera with you the canyon will not disappoint .
Trails To Hike Canyons 1–9
All trails begin and end at the visitor center. To hike canyons 1–5, turn left at the first creek bed on the white blaze trail, and canyons 6–9 by turning left at the second creek bed.
Hiking Trails
At Providence Canyon you have over 10 miles of hiking trails. The first trail is the Canyon Loop Trail. The Canyon Loop Trail is a 2.5 mile loop and is rated easy. The trail will take 2 hours but you should allow more time to explore and snap some photos. Canyon Loop Trail starts at the visitor center and will lead you down (1/4 mile) to the floor of the canyon. This descent to the canyon floor has quite a grade to it. But it is only 1/4 mile. Bring water with you especially during the warmer months.
It is important to wear appropriate footwear. The canyon floor is always wet and soft. It even has running water to pass through. Your feet will get wet! Follow the white markings to stay on this trail. It will bring you to canyons 6-9. All of the trails start and end at the visitor center.
The second trail and most difficult is the Backcountry Trail. The Backcountry Trail is a 7 mile loop. It is extremely rugged and difficult. The trail is marked with red markings and will take you to the backcountry campsites. The canyons can be viewed on this trail but are not accessible.
Camping
Providence Canyon State Park has 9 camp sites available. Campsites can be reserved by calling. The phone number can be found in the link at the top of the page.
Picnicing
Do you want to reserve a picnic shelter at Providence Canyon State Park? You can reserve online as well. Remember to bring your food, drink and supplies with you. Food establishments are not very close by.
The parking fee is $5. Leashed dogs are welcome.
