Beyond the Grand Canyon, Explore 21 Canyons in the United States
The Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning, largest, and most impressive landmarks in the United States, stretching over 250 miles and averaging 4,000 feet deep. But many other canyons dot the U.S. landscape and offer plenty to leave visitors’ mouths agape in wonder.
From majestic national parks to towering cliffs along state borders, consider visiting these other “grand” canyons in the United States and be prepared to be awed by the beauty and power of the geological formations around you.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Utah
Situated in southern Utah, Bryce Canyon is renowned for its giant natural amphitheaters, iconic towering hoodoos, and colorful rock formations. Bryce Canyon is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal destination for panoramic daytime views and stargazing at night.
Zion Canyon
Utah
The central feature of the popular Zion National Park is beloved for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons (including Zion Narrows), and lush vegetation. Hiking through Zion Narrows, with the Virgin River flowing through, offers an unforgettable experience to those seeking adventure.
Antelope Canyon
Arizona
Two hours north of the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon is no less impressive with mesmerizing, narrow passageways and stunning play of light and shadow on curved sandstone walls. There are two main sections to see — Upper Antelope Canyon (also known as The Crack) and Lower Antelope Canyon (also known as The Corkscrew) — but booking an advance tour is required.
Palo Duro Canyon
Texas
Tucked into the Texas Panhandle, the “Grand Canyon of Texas” is the second largest canyon in the U.S., spreading for more than 120 miles and is up to 800 feet deep. Visitors can hike to see the distinct Lighthouse rock formation or enjoy the long-running Texas Outdoor Musical, which celebrates the history, culture, and spirit of the Texas Panhandle.
Red Rock Canyon
Nevada
Just to the west of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails and climbing routes that cater to all skill levels. Adventurers can also take a scenic 13-mile drive through the heart of the canyon to hike, picnic, photograph and spend a day soaking in panoramic vistas.
Nine Mile Canyon
Utah
Known as the “World’s Longest Art Gallery,” Nine Mile Canyon actually for over 40 miles. Its nickname comes from its extensive collection of rock art panels, which include drawings of human figures and animals. Nine Mile Canyon is also famous for its archaeological sites, which provide insights into its fascinating past.
Canyon Falls
Michigan
“Michigan’s Grand Canyon” can be found on the Sturgeon River in the Upper Peninsula and offers magnificent scenery no matter the season. Canyon Falls — with a 30-foot-high waterfall and 300-foot slate gorge presents a magnificent site and visitors can spend time hiking, swimming, and cliff jumping along the trail.
Canyonlands National Park
Utah
The Colorado and Green Rivers flow through this Southeast Utah park, creating four distinct districts to explore in a stunning desert landscape: Islands in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the riverside district. Each district has its own character, creating opportunities for hiking, photography, sightseeing, four-wheeling, kayaking, and more.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Colorado
This strikingly narrow and deep canyon in western Colorado offers visitors the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring beauty and ruggedness of one of the most dramatic U.S. canyons. The sheer, dark-colored granite walls give the canyon its name and rise more than 2,000 above the Gunnison River, creating a majestic landscape.
Hells Canyon
Idaho, Oregon
Stretching over 100 miles along the Snake River, Hells Canyon forms the border between western Idaho and northeastern Oregon. The canyon is North America’s deepest river gorge, reaching depths of nearly 8,000 feet. Despite its name, visitors can marvel at the panoramic views of sheer cliffs and deep gorges while enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
Waimea Canyon
Hawaii
The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” is a breathtaking wonder located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii’s “Garden Isle.” The canyon stretches for nearly 14 miles and has depths of up to 3,000 feet, offering stunning scenic beauty and a spectrum of vibrant colors.
Kings Canyon
California
Situated in eastern California, Kings Canyon is well known for its location next to Sequoia National Park. Its groves of giant sequoias include the historic, towering General Grant Tree. Beyond its massive trees, Kings Canyon reaches depths of over 8,000 feet, allowing visitors to see towering granite canyon walls, rushing waters, and incredible scenery.
Glen Canyon
Arizona, Utah
Straddling the border between Arizona and Utah, Glen Canyon stretches for approximately 186 miles along the Colorado River. Lake Powell floods much of Glen Canyon but transforms the landscape into a network of waterways, coves, and submerged canyons. Visitors won’t want to miss Horseshoe Bend — a spot where the river essentially bends back on itself — which can be seen from an overlook after a short hike.
Santa Elena Canyon
Texas
Situated in the western part of Big Bend National Park, Santa Elena is a popular destination near the Texas-Mexico border. Visitors are often awestruck by the contrast between the rugged desert landscape and the lush environment within the canyon with the Rio Grande flowing through it.
Smith Rock State Park
Oregon
Rock-climbing and canyon enthusiasts will love this Central Oregon park, which is known for its scenic rock formations. It is also world-famous for its more than 2,000 climbing routes, which range in difficulty and offer something for climbers of all skill levels. Smith Rock also boasts scenic hiking trails, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the ridge.
Columbia River Gorge
Oregon, Washington
Cutting through the Cascade Range in the Pacific Northwest, the Columbia River Gorge stretches for nearly 80 miles on the border of Washington and Oregon. The canyon features towering cliffs, forests, and cascading waterfalls — including Bridal Veil Falls and Multnomah Falls — each with its own unique charm.
Little River Canyon
Alabama
This scenic and rugged Alabama canyon is nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains within the Little River Canyon National Preserve, covering an area of approximately 15,288 acres. Amid the impressive rock formations and indescribable beauty, visitors won’t want to miss Little River Falls near the canyon’s entrance.
Canyon de Chelly
Arizona
Located within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation in Northeast Arizona, Canyon de Chelly (pronounced de-shay) is a remarkable destination. Visitors can take self-guided tours and hikes to explore this culturally rich landscape, which features towering 1,000-foot cliffs, rock formations, hoodoos, and well-preserved ruins of ancient Ancestral Puebloan villages.
Paria Canyon
Utah, Arizona
Straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, Paria Canyon offers a sense of adventure in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the American Southwest. The canyon winds through the desert landscape and is characterized by a network of narrow slot canyons. Thrill seekers can trek the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Loop for a multi-day adventure through the entire canyon.
Letchworth State Park
New York
Famously referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park in western New York is situated on the Genesee River gorge. Fans of waterfalls will be in heaven because the park has three major waterfalls: Upper Falls, Middle Falls, and Lower Falls, with Middle Falls plunging more than 100 feet.
Gulf Hagas
Maine
Referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Maine,” this rugged trail rewards those capable of the effort, as it passes by four named waterfalls and numerous rapids. Although challenging, the trail sees frequent travelers due to its intersection with the Appalachian Trail. The trailhead sits just 16 miles away from Greenville.
Explore Stunning Canyons in the U.S.
Whether you want to travel to the Texas Panhandle, western New York, or the island of Kauai, dozens of stunning canyons showcase some of the purest and most beautiful places in the United States.
If you’ve been to the Grand Canyon and are looking for a different, but just as scenic experience, consider visiting one of these canyons. The views are incredible, the formations are massive and they can be a paradise for hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.