Secret Atlanta’s list of the seven most amazing natural wonders in the Peach State!
From the deepest cave in the United States to absolutely stunning waterfalls, there’s no shortage of untouchable natural beauty in Georgia. Although Georgia has an official list of wonders, we thought we’d create our own. Discover some of nature’s wildest and weirdest creations, as we delve into the depths of our natural wonders, here in the Peach State.
With the hustle & bustle of ATL life, it’s easy to forget that we’re so close to so many incredible natural beauties, begging to be explored. So whether you’re looking for the perfect staycation location, or looking for somewhere to go on that perfect day trip, here are some of our favorite natural wonders in Georgia, created by Mother Nature.
1. Amicalola Falls
Our first recommendation won’t come as a surprise to most Georgians, however, it wholeheartedly deserves its place at number one. This gorgeous waterfall is the highest in Georgia, coming in at an impressive 729-feet.
The name “Amicalola” comes from a Cherokee language term ama uqwalelvyi, meaning “tumbling waters”. You can find this natural wonder at Dawsonville’s Amicalola Falls State Park. You see, it’s so important that it even has its own State Park named after it. Check out some of our favorite hikes with the best waterfalls in Georgia.
2. Providence Canyon
Did you know that Georgia has its own miniature Grand Canyon? Of course, ours is a lot more green! Head to Providence Canyon Park for an unforgettable hike, with several trails highlighting the unusual rock formations at this Georgia gem.
Even though this is one of our spectacular natural wonders, the origins aren’t natural at all. The mistakes of the past are on clear display, as this canyon was accidently created by 1800’s settlers and their poor farming practices. By not looking after the soil, erosion occurred and spurred these striking formations of orange and white rock.
3. Tallulah Gorge
This gorgeous gorge also has a state park named after it! Tallulah Gorge State Park is a 2,689-acre park in Georgia. Head to the Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail for unbeatable views of the 1,000-foot deep gorge, formed by the action of the fierce Tallulah River. However, to get to said views, there’s a lot of stairs that need climbing.
With waterfalls, campgronds, and a former Victorian resort town, there’s so much to do around the Tallulah George, one of our favorite natural wonders here in Georgia! There’s even a suspension footbridge that sways 80 feet above the river!
4. Ellison’s Cave
Did you know that Georgia is home to the deepest cave in the continental United States? You’d never guess that this epic cave would be hiding behind its timid entrance. Inside Ellison’s Cave is the Fantastic Pit, a 586 feet plunge within its 12-mile stretch of stunning rock formations. The pit almost matches the height of Seattle’s Space Needle!
However, accessing this cave and the pit is extremely dangerous and isn’t recommended, even for the strongest spelunkers!
5. Okefenokee Swamp
The Okefenokee Swamp is a shallow, 438,000-acre, peat-filled wetland straddling the Georgia–Florida border. Witness crocodiles, beautiful greenery, and the untouchable wetlands that the South-West is famous for. The swamp is a great place to escape the city to re-connect, with abundant wildlife and some fresh Georgian air.
A majority of the swamp is protected by the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the Okefenokee Wilderness. There are several opportunities to tour this precious part of Georgia by motorboat or canoe! The crocs make it one of the most thrilling (or terrifying) experiences in the state!
6. Radium Springs
Radium Springs is Georgia’s largest natural spring that pumps hundreds and thousands of gallons of water from an underground cave. The distinctive turquoise color of the water makes every visit feel like a lucid dream. You can see the fish and creatures that occupy this beloved spring swimming and dancing around.
The water contains traces of radium, and the water temperature is 68 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Unfortunately you can’t swim in the spring, however, you’re welcome to enjoy the stunning surrounding areas and walkways.
7. Driftwood Beach
This is your sign to visit Jekyll Island if you haven’t already, or perhaps you should consider a re-visit if you have! Driftwood Beach is an Instagram-ready stretch of Jekyll Island that doubles as an eerie graveyard for trees!
The sculpture-like pine and oak trees look frozen in time after sinking into the depths of the sand. You could spend hours just wandering around and seeing all the sun-bleached trees. This spot is popular amongst photographers, and couples have even tied the knot at this gem on the Georgia coast.