Top 5 Alternatives to the Grand Canyon

More than 5 million people visit Grand Canyon National Park each year for a bucket-list adventure. Although a worthy destination, the Grand Canyon can also get crowded and challenge visitors looking for a more off-the-beaten path vacation.

Instead of putting off that next outdoor vacation, enjoy one of these alternatives to the Grand Canyon.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Nestled in southeastern Utah, Canyonlands National Park boasts panoramic overlooks and desert landscape. Rivers divide the park into areas known as Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze and rivers. Visitors stunned by the dramatic red rock landscape can explore the area looking for a hiking adventure.

Waimea Canyon

Canyon views can be found in all corners of the country, including the tropics. The Grand Canyon of the Pacific is known as Waimea Canyon, or “reddish water” in Hawai’ian. Explore more than 14 miles of crested buttes, crags and gorges with panoramic views of the park and inland vistas.

Palo Duro Canyon

The Texas Panhandle is home to the second-largest canyon in the United States. Palo Duro Canyon State Park features multicolored layers of rock and Grand Canyon-inspired mesa walls. Visitors can camp out at the bottom of the canyon, bike, hike or indulge in a leisurely weekend drive.

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Located west of Canon City, Colorado, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is home to the country’s highest suspension bridge and zip line. With the help of the Arkansas River, the gorge features a carved path stretching below YMCA Mountain and Fremont Peak.

Canyon de Chelly

Arizona’s Canyon de Chelly sits on Navajo tribal lands with a towering Spider Rock spire standing 800 feet tall. Sweeping views include sandstone cliffs and prehistoric rock art. Visitors can take a free hike with a ranger or stop in to enjoy the scenic views.