Q&A on the News

Q: In a recent Atlanta Journal-Constitution, you mentioned that Radium Springs is one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders. Please name the other six, their location and a brief description of each. I’m extremely interested in visiting them.

—Tawana Parker, Hapeville

A: Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders are:

  • Amicalola Falls (Dawsonville) – These are the highest falls in the state, with a drop of 729 feet. Amicalola Falls State Park, 706-265-4703.
  • Okefenokee Swamp (South Georgia) – Many kinds of animals, including alligators, live within its 400,000-plus acres. Stephen C. Foster State Park, 912-637-5274.
  • Providence Canyon (Lumpkin) – With gullies more than 150 feet deep, it's called Georgia's Little Grand Canyon. Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area, 229-838-6870.
  • Radium Springs (Albany) – This once-popular swimming area is now a walkable garden. Albany Convention and Visitors Bureau, 229-317-4760.
  • Stone Mountain – The 1,686-foot granite landmark is known for the carving of Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson and Jefferson Davis and the Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision. Stone Mountain Park, 800-401-2407.
  • Tallulah Gorge (Tallulah Falls) – The gorge is nearly than 1,000 feet deep and features several water falls. Tallulah Gorge State Park, 706-754-7981.
  • Warm Springs – The 88-degree water drew Franklin D. Roosevelt to the springs, where he built the Little White House. Roosevelt's Little White House Historic Site, 706-655-5870.

The original list of Georgia’s Natural Wonders, compiled in 1926, included the Jekyll Island forest and the Long Swamp Valley marble deposits in Pickens County, but were replaced by Radium Springs and Providence Canyon on subsequent lists.

Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).