Known as "Georgia's Little Grand Canyon", Providence Canyon is a geological wonder located in southwest Georgia. While beautiful, the canyon is also a testament to the impact that man can have on the natural environment.
Providence Canyon continues to erode and change due to surface water runoff and the undercutting force of groundwater. The clay content of sediments in the floor of the canyon makes it more resistant, and the growth of pine trees, laurel bushes, and other vegetation helps to stabilize the soil, reducing the rate of vertical erosion. Lateral erosion, however, continues, and because of the soft nature of the upper soils, changes can happen very rapidly. Gorges grow larger, and the rim of the canyon often shows signs of crumbling and receding. Pinnacles gradually decrease in size and can disappear overnight in heavy rains.
The canyon is also home to the rare plumleaf azalea. The plumleaf azalea blooms during July and August long after most alaleas have lost their color.
To log this Earthcache, you are required to visit the canyon and then submit answers to the following questions to the cache owner. Several of these answers are available at the Visitor Center. Others will require a trip into the canyon.
- What caused Providence Canyon to be formed?
- In particular, what action by humans caused this?
- What types of marine sediment does the park lie on?
- What soil series are the most prominent?
- What are the 3 geological formations seen on the canyon walls?
- What causes the various colors of the sands?
- At the entrance of canyons 4 & 5, what is the width and depth of the water flow?
- (Optional) Post a picture of yourself with in the canyon with the layers displayed in the background.
Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area is a 1,003 acre state park located in Stewart County in Southwest Georgia.
Hours (subject to change)
- Outdoor Recreation Area: 7am – 6pm
- Visitor Center: September 15 – April 14, Wednesday – Sunday 8am – 6pm; April 15 – September 14, Wednesday – Sunday 8am – 9pm
Fees and Passes: $5 parking but annual passes are available
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