Hiking the Little Grand Canyon in Georgia

Providence Canyon State Park, aka Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon, should definitely be on your road trip bucket list!

This beautiful state park in Georgia is known as the Little Grand Canyon because of its unique geological features. The park is home to a series of canyons and gorges that are simply breathtaking!

These canyons and gorges are up to 150 feet deep in some places, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The park is a popular destination for hikers, picnickers, and nature lovers, and it’s easy to see why when you witness its natural beauty firsthand.

At just a 5hr and 30min drive from Orlando, you can go hike and explore this breathtaking place. These beautiful canyons in the ‘Peach’ state are a product of poor farming practices dating back to the 1800s.

Things to do in Providence Canyon State Park

Today, the canyon is a beautiful and popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The 1,103-acre park features 16 miles of trails, including an extremely difficult backcountry trail.

You can hike to the bottom of the canyon for a closer look at the unique rock formations. There is also a campground and picnic area.

There is one main trail leading to the 9 canyons, a museum, and a visitor’s center with exhibits on the area’s geology and history.

There are cliffs, forests, meadows, and streams that all come together to create a beautiful and peaceful setting.

This was our first visit, and although we didn’t get to see all the canyons, we were able to see canyons 1-5. It was super cloudy that day.

In fact, it had been raining since early morning just as we were driving down from Covington.

Hiking the Little Grand Canyon in Georgia

Hiking trails begin right next to the visitor’s center. The trail to the canyons is a 1/4 mile hike going downhill – so hiking boots or trail running shoes are recommended.

Please don’t be like me and go over your things before leaving. I had the worst experience that day because I left my hiking boots at home! Not good!

Once you get down to the creek bed, you’ll see signs guiding you to the different canyons. You can see how many you want or all of them.

There is also a loop trail that takes about 3 hours, including some time to explore, which takes you around the canyons. This loop trail is blazed white.

If you want to see canyons 6-9, you will need to stay on this trail.

Be sure to check the weather prior to hiking Providence Canyon. If it had been raining days before your visit, the soil of the creek bed can get very slippery.

My son referred to it as quicksand – and that’s exactly how it feels. For this reason, it’s best if you take your time while hiking and be aware of where you’re stepping.

During our visit to the Little Grand Canyon we wanted to explore the rest of the canyons but the thought of being right in the middle of the canyons when it began to rain again, really had us feeling a bit anxious.

Overall, this was an incredible outdoor destination in Georgia!

Who knows? It might just be one of those trips I’ll be taking again.

Tip: check the weather before heading out!

Plan your Visit

Hours: September 15–April 14: 7 am – 6 pm | April 15–September 14: 7 am – 9 pm | Visitor’s Center: open daily until 5 pm

Fees: $5 for parking

Location: 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815

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