We welcomed nine newcomers to Hartfield's Hikers in June.  Our July hike is in south Georgia, at Providence Canyon. It is quite different from most of our previous hikes.  The trail surrounds the canyon and allows you to look over into the 9 canyons and marvel at the breathtaking colors of Georgia's 'Little Grand Canyon.'  We will start by going into the canyons.  I was amazed when I was down in the canyons and looked up at the beautiful natural hues of the canyon walls.

 

The floors of the canyons are wet and a little muddy.  Wear shoes you won't mind getting dirty.  Also, bring your bug spray.  It really isn't bad, but want to be sure you are properly prepared.

 

This will actually be an historic hike for us.  We found out that due to a lack of funding, the visitors center will be closed.  The facilities will be open, but not the office. However, we were able to get some memento pins for those who make the hike and are interested.

 

You will be amazed at the breathtaking colors of Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon." Colorful wildflowers, as well as the pink, orange, red and purple hues of the soft canyon soil, make a beautiful natural painting at this unique park. The rare Plumleaf Azalea grows only in this region and blooms during July and August when most azaleas have lost their color.  

The floor of the canyons is often wet and/or muddy so you should wear shoes and clothing that you don't mind getting muddy.  This is a great trail for beginners and youth.

Sat., August 1, 2009 

 

Georgia's Black Rock Mountain State Park is named for its sheer cliffs of dark-colored biotite gneiss. The park covers some of the most beautiful land in Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains.

Located along the Eastern Continental Divide, the Black Rock Mountain State Park is the highest state park in Georgia with an altitude of 3,640 feet. The many scenic overlooks provide amazing 80-mile views of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.