Our 'Little' Grand Canyon

You don’t have to go all the way to Arizona to visit the Grand Canyon, Georgia has its very own “little grand canyon”. The funny thing is I have lived in Georgia for almost 14 years and just recently hear about this hidden gem. I cannot wait to cross it off my bucket list!!

Located a little more than 2 hours south of Atlanta is Providence Canyon in Lumpkin, GA. While the original Grand Canyon was formed through a very long natural process Providence Canyon was born from poor farming practices in the 1800s that lead to extreme erosion forming the canyon we see today.

While the canyon is much smaller than its Arizona counterpart it is still a worth the trip! It comprises 16 canyons, is approximately 150 feet deep, and sports over 10 miles of hiking trails.

For the true outdoorsman or woman there are 6 backcountry campsites, but If you want to explore the canyon but camping isn’t your cup of tea; nearby Florence Marina State Park has 1-2 bedroom cottages available. These jazzy digs range from $75-150 a night and come with linens, a fully equipped kitchen, wood burning fireplace, screened porch, and much more. So after your long day of taking in the sights you can enjoy a hearty meal by a warm fire with friends or family.

Aaaaaaaaaamazing!

By staying overnight gives you the option of exploring half the canyons one day and the other half the next day. Also keep in mind while exploring the canyon, that your voice carries. You are can hear conversations that are happening a half of mile ahead of you. So whether your with friends or family, be sure that all discussions in the canyon are things that you are fine with everyone hearing.

I personally could spend days on end hiking and exploring before returning to a cozy bed for some R&R. But if you want to add some variety to your trip and like science check out the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus less than an hour away from the Canyon and conveniently located on the way back to Atlanta.

Admission is only $6 per adult and $4 per child ages 4-12. The center boosts the largest collection of NASA artifacts in Georgia, a Planetarium, and interactive exhibits!! That means you get to touch stuff! I don’t care how young or old you are, we all love to touch things.

So what are you waiting for? Get started on planning trips to the little grand canyon and let us know how you like it!

Click highlighted links to learn more about these hidden gems!