OutdoorHub Treks: Providence Canyon, the “Small Grand Canyon” of the Southeast
Taylor Hutchinson 02.28.23
The Grand Canyon is a wonder to see. The vast canyon for what I am told can be a profound experience. For those of us located in the Southeastern United States, we may not think to look in our backyard for something as tremendous as one of the seven wonders of the world. However, if one is longing for something as unique and vast as to explore without having to travel across the country, one can look no further than a small county in Southwest Georgia. While it’s not the seventh wonder of the world, it surely will not disappoint.
The canyon itself was formed by poor farming practices in the early 19th century. This lesson in bad land management resulted in the formation of the 150ft deep gullies and canyons. The state park was established in 1971 and is now a popular hiking destination. The Georgia red clay is synonymous with this part of the state, and the canyon’s pink, orange, red, and purple hues give Grand Canyon vibes with a distinct Georgia flare. The park has many trials for hikers looking to explore the nine canyons. The Canyon Loop Trail gives you the best overall view overlooking the various canyons. For those looking to stay overnight, camping can be done either in the larger Pioneer campsites or the more primitive Backcountry campsites. These are accessible via the Backcountry Trail or for those who are eager to explore deeper into the 1000-acre park. Hiking through the Canyon Loop Trail, one can find old farming equipment still left over from the canyon’s origin story. This trail also connects hikers to the Canyon Trail that descends into the gullies and canyon basin.
Hiking in the canyon basin is best to do in the cooler months of the year, as the basin can get fairly warm and uncomfortable. The canyon floor and surrounding trails will stay fairly muddy, so I would recommend wearing good water-resistant hiking boots. The trail leading to the canyon floor is a steep half-mile descent and is the best way to get the essence of why travelers come from all over to experience the beauty of this place. Canyons 4 and 5 seem to be the most popular spot, and they do not disappoint. The canyon walls are really something marvelous to behold that pictures have a difficult time capturing. Whether doing a day trip or staying the weekend in the Park, the “smol Grand Canyon” has layers to explore for hikers at any level of experience.
If one finds themselves in the Deep South, head to Western Georgia. They will discover a unique hidden gem that leaves them pondering that good and beautiful things can come from bad situations.
