Providence Canyon

Georgia's Physical Features

A canyon is a deep valley with steep sides, typically created through long-term erosion by an associated river or stream.

Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” located in the southwestern portion of the state, is a series of gorges carved by rainwater runoff from nearby farm fields. An unintended byproduct of poor agricultural practices from the 1800s, Providence Canyon is considered to be one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders. It is characterized by cliffs, chasms, and plateaus in a wide variety of colors, along with the rare plumleaf azalea, which only grows in this region of Georgia.

From the floor of Providence Canyon, visitors can enjoy the variety of colors and patterns featured on the canyon’s walls, where erosion has revealed layers of sediment, stained by different minerals over millions of years.​​

Limonite and manganese are found in abundance throughout the canyon. Limonite is distinguishable by its yellowish color, while manganese can be identified by its purplish hue.​

Abandoned cars remain in place on some trails in Providence Canyon because removing them could potentially cause environmental damage to the area.​