For years, my wife and I have dreamt of visiting the Grand Canyon together. The grandeur and majesty of this iconic landmark in Arizona have always captivated our imaginations. While researching for an extended trip we hope to take in 2023, I Googled “Grand Canyon.” I hoped to find information about the Grand Canyon in Arizona—the only Grand Canyon I thought existed! Imagine my surprise when I found a map of the U.S. dotted with more Grand Canyons than I could count! Suddenly, our trip planning for 2023 took a new and exciting turn. We’re now mapping out a route that includes many of the lesser-known “other Grand Canyons.” Each of these hidden gems has its own special features, and we plan to see them soon! Here are some of the incredible Grand Canyons scattered across the United States that you might want to add to your travel bucket list.
The Actual Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park
Located in Northern Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. This iconic park, situated on the ancestral homeland of 11 Tribal Communities, is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world. The park offers incomparable vistas from the rims, with the South Rim being open year-round and the North Rim open seasonally. It’s a place where the vastness and beauty of nature leave visitors in awe, making it a must-see destination for travelers.
Little River Canyon, The Grand Canyon of Alabama
Over eons of geologic time, Little River has carved out one of the Southeast’s deepest canyons as it winds its way from headwaters in Georgia before exiting the mountain and emptying into the Coosa River near Leesburg, Alabama. This stunning canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of Alabama, is a haven for nature lovers. Legend has it that a minor Civil War skirmish occurred on the rim, adding a touch of historical intrigue to its natural beauty.
Grand Gulf State Park, The Grand Canyon of Arkansas
Often referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon,” Grand Gulf State Park is one of the natural wonders of the Ozarks. The park features the most spectacular collapsed cave system in the region, with the “Grand Gulf” stretching for about three-quarters of a mile between 130-foot-high walls. This breathtaking park offers a unique glimpse into the geological history of the area and provides a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploration.
Little Grand Canyon, The Grand Canyon of Illinois
Especially beautiful during April and October when spring wildflowers and fall colors are at their peak, the Little Grand Canyon in Illinois offers a 3-mile trail that leads to scenic overlooks and winds along the base of 300-foot bluffs. Visitors can explore the canyon through a bottomland forest before emerging through a rocky creek bed. The interpretive signs along the upper trail provide insights into the canyon’s formation and natural history.
Canyon Falls, Michigan
Canyon Falls, located 7 miles south of L’Anse along US 41, is an impressive and easily accessible waterfall in Michigan. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the UP,” this site features a scenic trail along the Sturgeon River, leading to a series of rapids and small waterfalls before reaching Canyon Falls. The river slides nearly 30 feet over a large chute of smooth black rock into a box canyon, making it a spectacular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Grand Gulf State Park, The Grand Canyon of Missouri
Grand Gulf State Park, also known as the “Little Grand Canyon,” presents a stunning collapsed cave system in the Ozarks. The “Grand Gulf” extends for three-quarters of a mile between 130-foot-high walls. Visitors can view the gulf from trails on top or from the floor, where they can walk under a natural bridge that spans 250 feet with a 75-foot-high opening. Although there is no official trail leading to the bottom, adventurous visitors can carefully explore this natural wonder.
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, North Carolina
The Linville Gorge Wilderness, part of the Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina, is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of North Carolina. The gorge, formed by the Jonas Ridge on the east and Linville Mountain on the west, is bisected by the Linville River, which drops 2,000 feet into the valleys below. The rugged terrain, covered by dense hardwood and pine forests, offers numerous recreation opportunities, including hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, fishing, and hunting.
Grand Canyon of Tennessee
The Tennessee River Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of Tennessee, begins approximately five miles downstream from downtown Chattanooga and extends for 27 river miles to Hales Bar Dam Marina near Nickajack Lake. This scenic gorge creates a unique diversity of landforms, offering breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. The proximity to Chattanooga makes it an easily accessible yet stunning natural wonder.
Breaks Interstate Park, Virginia
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Breaks Interstate Park is home to one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River. This natural haven offers miles of hiking trails that wind through rugged cliffs, roaring rivers, and dense forests. Visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the Russell Fork River and Laurel Lake, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
New River Gorge, The Grand Canyon of West Virginia
Established in 1978 and redesignated as New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in 2021, this park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River. The river, flowing northward through deep and spectacular canyons, is among the oldest rivers on Earth. In southern West Virginia, the New River has carved and continues to carve the deepest and longest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including whitewater rafting, hiking, and rock climbing.
Planning Our Grand Canyon Adventure
Our discovery of these lesser-known Grand Canyons has transformed our travel plans. Instead of a single destination trip, we are now planning an extended journey that will take us across the country to explore these magnificent canyons. Each of these destinations offers its own unique beauty and adventure, promising a travel experience unlike any other.
Our journey will start at the iconic Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, where we will take in the awe-inspiring vistas and the rich cultural history of the region. From there, we will head to Alabama to explore the stunning Little River Canyon, followed by a visit to Arkansas’s Grand Gulf State Park.
As we make our way north, we will stop at Illinois’s Little Grand Canyon and Michigan’s Canyon Falls before heading to Missouri to see another Grand Gulf State Park. The adventure will continue in North Carolina with the rugged beauty of Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, and we will then explore the Grand Canyon of Tennessee near Chattanooga.
Our trip will culminate with visits to Breaks Interstate Park in Virginia and the newly designated New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. Each of these stops will offer a new and exciting perspective on the natural wonders of the United States.
Conclusion
Our journey to discover the many Grand Canyons of the United States promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. From the iconic landscapes of Arizona to the hidden gems scattered across the country, these canyons offer a diverse and breathtaking array of natural beauty. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just looking for your next great adventure, consider exploring some of these lesser-known Grand Canyons. Each one provides a unique experience and a chance to connect with nature in a profound way.
As we embark on our Grand Canyon adventure, we look forward to sharing our experiences and discoveries with you. Stay tuned for updates and stories from the road as we explore the incredible landscapes that make up America’s Grand Canyons.
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