"Uncover the layers of 'Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon' as you navigate the unusual geological formations created by erosion of the Coastal Plain after years of poor agricultural practices, hike miles of sandy nature trails, and gaze at dark skies while camping at Providence Canyon State Park."
Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon” is a testament to the power of man’s influence on the land. Massive gullies as deep as 150 feet were caused simply by poor farming practices during the 1800s, yet today they make some of the prettiest photographs within the state. The rare Plumleaf Azalea grows only in this region and blooms during July and August when most azaleas have lost their color. The canyon soil’s pink, orange, red and purple hues make a beautiful natural painting at this quiet park. - https://gastateparks.org/ProvidenceCanyon
Located in the cutest and sleepiest little town of Lumpkin, GA, this state park pops up as you’re driving through cotton fields and along the Chattahoochee River. While there is a rustic campground located inside the state park, there aren’t many hotels or airbnb/vrbo options nearby which probably explains the emptiness of the park when I visited.
According to 365 Atlanta Traveler, “There are 16 different canyons, exposing 43 different shades on the canyon walls of soil ranging from light orange, salmon, red and scarlet to white, purple, and pink. All the colors make this one of the most beautiful and interesting hikes in Georgia.
If you only have time to hike a few, canyons four and five are the most spectacular. Be sure to wear old shoes too. The canyon floor is below sea level, and you’ll walk through streams running through nice red Georgia clay.
Canyon Loop Trail is considered one of the easier hikes. Head out on this 2.1-mile loop trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 52 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Make sure to get a map at the visitor center to navigate your way, and leave time to hike the outer rim and canyon edges for a bird’s eye view. Along the rim’s path, you’ll encounter old cars that once belonged to owners of a homestead that is now park land. Removing the deteriorating vehicles would have caused too much damage to the environment and animals that made homes within the junk, so park officials have left them for posterity, kind of adding an interesting twist to the wooded paths.” https://365atlantatraveler.com/