Outdoor Adventures at Georgia's 7 Natural Wonders

1. Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville

Surrounded by stunning scenery, the tumbling waters of Amicalola Falls form the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast and one of the most popular waterfalls in Georgia. From the falls, a truly memorable adventure awaits along a 5-mile trail leading guests to a secluded backcountry lodge, Len Foote Hike Inn. Visitors need only bring the basics and enjoy the comforts of cozy beds, hot showers, and delicious meals. Amicalola Falls State Park also serves as a spectacular welcome to the Appalachian Trail with an eight-mile approach to its southern terminus, Springer Mountain.

2. Okefenokee Swamp in Folkston

Located in the 400,000-acre Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, the Okefenokee is North America's largest blackwater swamp. Paddle among abundant wildlife in a mysterious, breathtaking landscape of reflective waters and gorgeous cypress forests draped in Spanish moss. An unforgettable overnight experience, seven shelters and two islands offer paddlers secluded camping under the darkest skies in the state. (Permits required).

3. Providence Canyon in Lumpkin

A landscape resembling the American West earned Providence Canyon the nickname "Little Grand Canyon." Carved by erosion due to poor farming practices, the canyons offer a fascinating look at the colorful history and geology of south Georgia. Backpackers explore the canyon inside and out along a challenging 7-mile trail that leads to six primitive campsites.

The park is a marvel to explore year-round but particularly in the fall when the changing leaves contrast with the orange-hued soil for a colorful palette. In the winter, the absence of hardwood foliage and vegetation more clearly reveals a landscape like nowhere else in the state.

4. Radium Springs in Albany

Georgia's largest natural spring, located in Albany in southwest Georgia, pumps thousands of gallons of water from an underground cave, giving the waters a surreal turquoise glow. Preserved as a historic site with stone pathways and lush botanical gardens, Radium Springs Gardens is one of Georgia's most unique attractions. Enjoy a shaded walk, gazing at the crystal clear pools, before paddling the Flint River to search for other blue holes.

5. Stone Mountain

A unique geologic formation, the towering granite monadnock offers family-friendly fun right outside of Atlanta. In addition to being a natural wonder, Stone Mountain Park also holds records for the world's longest-running laser show and the largest bas-relief carving on the planet. Explore the Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and hike to the top on a mile-long trail featuring natural beauty and magnificent views.

6. Warm Springs

Made famous by President Franklin D. Roosevelt's search for a polio cure, the buoyant spring waters in west Georgia's Warm Springs have offered a therapeutic environment for many patients. Visitors enjoy learning more about one of the most well-known hot springs in Georgia through museum exhibits at Roosevelt's Little White House before exploring Georgia's largest state park. More than 40 miles of trail offer endless adventure winding through forests, glimpsing waterfalls, and crossing creeks in the rolling mountains southwest of Atlanta.

7. Tallulah Gorge in Tallulah Falls

Nearly 1,000 feet deep, this two-mile gorge carved by the Tallulah River in northeast Georgia near Clayton is brimming with spectacular views and daring adventure. In addition to rock climbing and challenging mountain bike trails, outdoor enthusiasts can join the Canyon Climbers Club at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Descend into the canyon via staircases and natural surface paths, cross a suspension bridge, and cool off at a natural sliding rock and swimming hole at the gorge floor.