People often think of the Grand Canyon first when imagining dramatic rock formations and sweeping desert vistas. However, the United States is filled with other canyons that mirror the awe-inspiring beauty of its more famous sibling.
Exploring these hidden or lesser-known gorges can give you a fresh perspective on just how diverse the American landscape can be. Prepare to discover 15 remarkable canyons that promise unforgettable views and memorable adventures.
Bryce Canyon, Utah
Despite its name, Bryce Canyon is technically not a canyon but rather a series of natural amphitheaters carved into the Paunsaugunt Plateau. You’ll find thousands of crimson-hued hoodoos, which are tall pillars of rock shaped over millions of years by freeze-thaw cycles.
Hiking among these towering spires can feel like stepping into another world, especially when the rising sun illuminates the landscape with shades of orange and pink. Local wildlife, like mule deer and ravens, often add to the scene’s charm.
Zion Canyon, Utah
Zion National Park showcases towering sandstone cliffs painted in varying shades of red, white, and tan. Trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing test your courage and endurance, giving you a chance to see hidden waterfalls and dizzying overlooks.
You’ll notice lush greenery along the Virgin River, a sharp contrast to the stark canyon walls soaring above. Even during peak visitor seasons, there’s always a way to find a peaceful corner to appreciate nature’s artistry.
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Waimea Canyon, Hawaii
Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai stretches for about 10 miles and plunges down roughly 3,000 feet. Lush rainforests, vibrant red soil, and cascading waterfalls make this spot feel entirely different from any mainland canyon.
You’ll encounter a variety of scenic overlooks, each revealing new angles of colorful ridges and deep gorges. Hiking trails range from easy strolls to challenging treks, ensuring options for every level of explorer.
Hells Canyon, Oregon/Idaho
Hells Canyon claims the title of the deepest river gorge in North America, plunging even deeper than the Grand Canyon in certain sections. When you look down at the Snake River below, you might see jet boat tours or rafts navigating the rapids.
This rugged frontier showcases dramatic cliffs, high desert terrain, and pockets of evergreen forests all in one sweeping panorama. Wildlife like bighorn sheep and mountain goats thrive in the steep rocky habitats, adding a wild element to your visit.
Palo Duro Canyon, Texas
Palo Duro Canyon sometimes surprises travelers who don’t associate Texas with vivid red rock formations. The canyon’s multicolored layers stretch over 120 miles, offering countless opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and even outdoor music performances in summer.
When you see the sunrise bathe the rock walls in golden light, you’ll realize just how magical this southwestern landscape can be. Keep an eye out for roadrunners and turkey vultures, which often glide effortlessly over the wide-open spaces.
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Canyon de Chelly, Arizona
Canyon de Chelly has been inhabited for nearly 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in North America. The Navajo people still live and farm here, and this enduring connection to the land is palpable as you explore.
Sheer sandstone cliffs tower above you, while petroglyphs offer glimpses of ancient storytelling carved into the rock. Guided tours led by Navajo residents help you appreciate both the natural beauty and the canyon’s rich cultural heritage.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado
Famous for its steep, narrow walls, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison cuts through ancient rock that reflects a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. The gorge gets its name from the dark rock that can appear black in certain conditions, especially near sunrise or sunset.
Despite its grandeur, you’ll find fewer crowds here compared to bigger national parks, lending an air of solitude. Adventurous souls sometimes embark on challenging rock climbing routes or steep rim-to-river hikes.
Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona
Often overshadowed by the nearby red rocks of Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon is a lush corridor filled with pine forests and clear streams. Driving along the scenic highway reveals numerous pull-offs where you can admire multicolored canyon walls or dip your feet in the cool water.
The West Fork Trail offers a classic stroll along the creek, with towering cliffs and seasonal foliage that switches from green to vibrant reds and oranges in autumn. It’s a refreshing escape from the more arid desert environments.
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Royal Gorge, Colorado
Royal Gorge plunges over 1,200 feet deep and is carved by the Arkansas River as it rumbles through central Colorado. A suspension bridge spans the chasm, allowing you to see the canyon’s dizzying depth right below your feet.
Whitewater rafting is also popular here, especially if you crave an adrenaline rush while navigating the turbulent rapids. From the rim, you’ll witness a dramatic convergence of rugged rock, rushing water, and crisp mountain air.
Santa Elena Canyon, Texas
Located within Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena Canyon is a limestone gorge sculpted by the Rio Grande. The canyon walls rise hundreds of feet, creating a tranquil sanctuary for paddlers and hikers exploring the border between the United States and Mexico.
The river’s calm stretches allow you to drift peacefully, taking in the polished rock walls that glow in the shifting sunlight. For day-trippers, the easy Santa Elena Canyon Trail gives a taste of the deep, winding passageway.
Nine Mile Canyon, Utah
Though not as deep as some of the other canyons, Nine Mile Canyon is often called ‘the world’s longest art gallery.’ Its walls boast thousands of ancient petroglyphs and pictographs depicting hunts, rituals, and stories of the region’s earliest inhabitants.
Driving through this canyon can feel like a journey back in time, where each rock face reveals a new insight into early human creativity. Many sites are well-marked, making it easier to appreciate their historical significance without specialized guides.
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Bighorn Canyon, Montana/Wyoming
Bighorn Canyon introduces dramatic cliffs along the Bighorn River, stretching over 1,000 feet high in some spots. The canyon encompasses parts of both Montana and Wyoming, offering boat tours, scenic viewpoints, and an abundance of wildlife.
Bighorn sheep frequent the steep slopes, while eagles patrol the skies overhead. Whether you’re cruising on the water or trekking along the rim, the expansive vistas remind you of nature’s raw power.
Red River Gorge, Kentucky
Red River Gorge may not have the towering height of western canyons, but it makes up for that with lush forests, natural arches, and sandstone cliffs that attract rock climbers worldwide. Trails meander through dense woodland, leading to overlooks that show off layered rock formations and winding rivers below.
In the fall, the hardwood forests burst into vibrant reds and oranges, adding another layer of beauty to each view. Visitors often discover hidden waterfalls and rock shelters tucked away from the main paths.
Linville Gorge, North Carolina
Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Linville Gorge is sometimes referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of the East.’ Its steep cliffs and dense forests create a haven for experienced hikers and backpackers looking for rugged terrain.
Linville Falls stands as a popular highlight, where cascading water plunges into the gorge below. When you pause at the overlooks, the sweeping views of rolling ridges and thick tree cover reveal a side of America’s southeastern region that can feel far removed from modern life.
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Little River Canyon, Alabama
Little River Canyon lies atop Lookout Mountain, forming one of the deepest gorges in the Southeast. The river that shaped this canyon flows along the mountain’s top, creating waterfalls and swimming holes prized by locals.
Surrounding hiking trails reveal dramatic bluffs, sheer drops, and forested overlooks, offering a chance to lose yourself in nature’s timeless rhythms. During heavy rains, the waterfalls swell to thunderous proportions, creating an unforgettable spectacle of cascading water.
A World of Hidden Depths
When you step into these canyons, you enter terrains shaped by centuries of erosion, tectonic uplift, and the patient flow of rivers. The variety stretches from rainforests and waterfalls in Hawaii to parched desert rock in the American Southwest, proving that the country’s landscapes aren’t limited to one region or climate. You’ll find local cultures, ancient art, and unique wildlife woven into the experience, adding layers of discovery at every turn.
Next time you’re planning a trip, consider detouring from the usual hotspots and exploring one of these lesser-known marvels that showcase the beauty and diversity of the nation’s natural wonders.
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