Little Grand Canyon in Georgia
Providence Canyon State Park is a hidden gem in Southwest Georgia near Lumpkin. Although smaller than the Grand Canyon of Arizona and spread over a thousand acres. Are you wondering why it is called The Little Grand Canyon? Well, the answer lies in the farming practice dating back to the 1800s, which led to the…
Providence Canyon State Park is a hidden gem in Southwest Georgia near Lumpkin. Although smaller than the Grand Canyon of Arizona and spread over a thousand acres.
Are you wondering why it is called The Little Grand Canyon? Well, the answer lies in the farming practice dating back to the 1800s, which led to the formation of gullies as deep as 150 feet. Despite having its presence in the seven natural wonders of Georgia, it is ironic that it is a creation by man. The Department of Natural Resources of Georgia calls it a testament to the power of man’s influence on the land.
Brief History
Although the beauty of this place is a marvel in itself, the history of its formation would anger the environmentalists of today. This place was a residence for the Muscogee tribe before being inhabited by Europeans. The trees were cleared for cash crop cultivation like cotton and corn. The reason for soil erosion in the trees’ absence was unknown to the farmers. This was the reason for heavy soil erosion and falling of canyon slabs that have given rise to this marvelous structure of today.
Famous trails of Providence Canyon State Park
Not only in terms of looks, but this place also has some great trails like the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views in a relatively shorter travel time. The gorgeous color palette of the canyons and the rare plum leaf azalea plant make this place a true nature delight.
Backcountry trail
This trail covers a distance of 11 km and needs at least 3 hours for completion. It is called a relatively tough hike, and the route has a steep elevation. One should be careful of spiders present in the area. One can hike this trail at any time in the entire year. Dogs are allowed but should not be walking free as the area is known for some poisonous snakes. This trail has been judged a moderate to difficult one but offers a spectacular view, in the end, making the pain worthwhile.
Perimeter Loop Trail
This trail is the most popular amongst tourists and is easy to complete. It is almost 3.5 km long and takes an hour to complete. Unlike backcountry trails, this one is not secluded, and you will find many tourists flocking to camp, hike, and watch birds on the route. It has dense forests for most of the trail, but the view towards the end is what you will go for repeatedly on this trail. Despite the majority of its route being blocked by forests, hundreds of people flock to this place every year just for the serenity and the end views this trail offers. It is an easy hike manageable with kids.
Providence Canyon trails
This trail is the easiest among its counterparts and is mostly on flat land. It is a 3 km long trail that takes almost 50 minutes to complete. Though the area is muddy, this place offers beautiful views of different color palettes of the canyons.
Word of caution for those going on trails of Providence Canyon
- The area stays muddy for the entire year as trails mostly pass through mud creeks, so choose your footwear accordingly.
- One should stay hydrated and carry water bottles as the weather is hot.
- There has been an increase in rattlesnakes in the area, so be on the lookout for threats.
- There is a fee of $5 for parking at Providence Canyon and an optional $50 annual pass valid across all Georgia state parks.
- This place is a delight in late fall and winter, but you avoid it in the summer heat due to an even higher temperature on trails.
- There are no gift shops and food options within the park. So, carry your food, and you can leave your wallet in your car and immerse yourself in the beauty of this place.
- The backcountry campsites require hiking, so pack adequately for food and water needs.
- Although erosion has given the canyon a beautiful view, does not mean it has stopped. It continues in the park, so make sure you do not climb the walls of the canyon.
- Stay away from the fences for your safety.
Hotels for a stay near Providence Canyon State Park
There are multiple options for a luxury stay near the park. Downtown Columbus is a half-hour drive, offering a good city life with good restaurants, nightclubs, and great hotel options. Some of the stays in downtown Columbus are:
Booking.comIf you wish to go further, some hotels are listed as follows. Click on the hotel to learn more:
Booking.comCamping in Providence Canyon State Park
Not only trails, but this park also HAS IT ALL! It offers some amazing campgrounds for you to rest and enjoy the beauty that is Providence canyon. There is a rush for camping bookings, so try to make your reservations six months-1 year before your desired plan date. The canyon has six backcountry campsites 2-3 miles from the park. At a 20 minutes distance, you have Florence Marina State Park with a wide range of cottages and campsites. All the information regarding camping and tent areas can be found here.
Timings for the park
The park is open from 7 AM to 9 PM from mid-April to mid-September. The timings are from 7 AM to 6 PM from mid-September to mid-April. The visitor center is not closed any time of the year, and its timings are 8 AM to 5 PM.
How to reach Providence Canyon
Following routes can help you navigate better, your choice of transportation
- Direct bus from Atlanta to the state park- 4.5 hours
- Drive from Atlanta to the state park- 2.5 hours
- Taxi from Columbus Metropolitan to the state park- 1 hour 10 minutes
- Drive from Albany Dougherty County to the state park- 1 hour 45 minutes
- Drive from Dothan to the state park- 2 hours 5 minutes
You should note that the above routes are from Atlanta to the state park. You can visit here to check routes and transportation modes as per your residence.
Booking.comIs Providence Canyon worth the visit?
This place has been named one of the best places to visit in Georgia, so do not have doubts about whether this place is as lovely as it sounds. It is equally good as the Grand Canyon and much easier to travel. The different colored sedimentation gives it a stunning beauty rarely available elsewhere. An added advantage is that the place does not take much of your time and can be accommodated easily in your Georgia itinerary.
Final thoughts
The Providence Canyon State Park is a unique and miraculous structure with an interesting history. This place is a bucket-list-worthy site. Keep the weather conditions in mind before traveling and be safe.
Booking.com
