Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon – Providence Canyon
Did you know that Georgia has its own little Grand Canyon called Providence Canyon? It’s true, but don’t let the term “little” fool you. Providence Canyon covers over 1100 acres, and its natural beauty is unmeasurable, making it one of Georgia’s best and most unique hikes.
How Was Providence Canyon Formed?
Providence Canyon is actually the result of poor farming practices in the late 1800s when farmers cut down too many trees to make for more farmable land. The lack of trees made the land more vulnerable to soil erosion, so any small ravines already there continued to get deeper and deeper with each instance of heavy rainfall.
Where Is Providence Canyon?
Providence Canyon State Park can be found in Lumpkin, Georgia, close to the Georgia-Alabama border.
Address: 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815
Providence Canyon Hike Difficulty And Length
When it comes to hiking Providence Canyon, there are two main trails to choose from, Canyon Loop Trail and Backcountry Trail. Both of these start at the Visitor Center.
Canyon Loop Trail
2.5 miles | Easy to Moderate Hike | White Markers
Canyon Loop Trail is the shorter of the two hikes, allowing you to see all nine canyons. To see canyons 1-5, you will take a left at the first creek bed. Then, see canyons 6-9 by turning left at the second creek bed. After each canyon, turn back around to continue along the trail. Expect the canyon floor to be wet.
Backcountry Trail
7 miles | Difficult Hike | Red Markers
Backcountry Trail takes you through more of the forested area of the park. To hike Backcountry Trail, you will take a right at the first creek bed rather than left or straight toward the canyons.
What Are Providence Canyon State Park’s Hours?
- From September 15 to April 14, Providence Canyon State Park is open from 7 am to 6 pm.
- From April 15 to September 14, Providence Canyon State Park is open from 7 am to 9 pm.
Parking Info For Providence Canyon State Park
- Parking costs $5 per vehicle.
- Overnight guests must pay the daily ParkPass fee once per vehicle.
- If paying with a card rather than cash, you may be asked to pay at the Visitor Center rather than the ticket booth.
Are There Restrooms At Providence Canyon State Park?
Yes, you can find restrooms at the Visitor Center. In addition to bathrooms, at the Visitor Center, you can find maps of the park, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.
Providence Canyon Camping
If you are interested in camping at Providence Canyon, you can book various shelters and campgrounds here: Providence Canyon Camping
6 Comments
Gladis Morales
I once went to Pai Canyon in Thailand and this Providence Canyon reminded me of that adventure.
I like that you included the difficulty and what to see for every turn. I find this very helpful for hikes. Also, I appreciate that you mentioned the restrooms and parking space. Very important!
Laura
I did not expect the explanation of the canyon’s formation for something that’s preserved as a state park! such a relatively young canyon
A Capone Connection
I love Providence Canyon! I visited last year. This is a great post with all the important information.
Jennifer Record
What a cool spot I would never guess this canyon is in Georgia… I frequently make the trip to FLA from MA and would love to stop.
Yvonne
This looks like a really awesome place. Who knew Georgia had their own mini Grand Canyon? Love it!
Supraja Lakshmi N
I had no idea that Georgia had such a stunning natural wonder like Providence Canyon. I was impressed by the colorful rock formations and the diverse flora and fauna. I also learned a lot about the history and geology of the canyon and how it was formed by erosion. It sounds like a great place to hike, camp and enjoy nature.