Hikes that Will Surprise You in the American Southwest

Hikes that Will Surprise You in the American Southwest

The American Southwest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a stunning array of landscapes, from arid deserts to towering red rock formations. While iconic hikes like the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park are well-known, there are hidden gems that promise equally breathtaking experiences. In this guide, we'll uncover 9 surprising hikes in the U.S. Southwest, each with its unique charm and awe-inspiring vistas.


  1. Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
Location: Arizona/Utah border
Distance: Approximately 38 miles

Views and Experiences: This hike is a true adventure through colorful slot canyons, towering red rock walls, and ever-changing terrain. The highlight is "The Wave," a mesmerizing sandstone formation that seems to ripple like water frozen in time. A limited number of permits are issued daily, making this hike an exclusive and unforgettable experience.

  1. Coyote Gulch
Location: Escalante, Utah
Distance: Around 11 miles

Views and Experiences: Coyote Gulch is a hidden oasis within the Escalante Canyons, featuring natural arches, towering alcoves, and lush vegetation. Hikers will be treated to refreshing natural springs and the enchanting Jacob Hamblin Arch, creating a surreal contrast between the arid desert landscape and the vibrant greenery of the gulch.

  1. The Subway
Location: Zion National Park, Utah
Distance: Roughly 9 miles

Views and Experiences: Aptly named, The Subway is a unique slot canyon hike that leads hikers through water-carved passages and iconic tubular rock formations. The trek involves scrambling, rappelling, and wading through water, adding an extra layer of adventure to the already stunning surroundings.

  1. Devil's Bridge
Location: Sedona, Arizona
Distance: About 4.2 miles

Views and Experiences: This hike offers an awe-inspiring reward at the end – the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. The bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding red rock landscape, making it a popular spot for breathtaking photos.

  1. Bryce Canyon Rim Trail
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Distance: Varies, up to 11 miles

Views and Experiences: While many visitors explore Bryce Canyon from below, the Rim Trail provides a unique perspective from above. The trail winds along the edge of the canyon, offering sweeping vistas of the famous hoodoos and colorful rock formations that make Bryce Canyon so distinctive.

  1. Kanarra Falls
Location: Kanarraville, Utah
Distance: Around 4.8 miles

Views and Experiences: Kanarra Falls is a hidden gem that takes hikers through a cool, shady slot canyon, past picturesque waterfalls, and eventually ends in a charming, ladder-assisted climb to a stunning upper falls. This hike is a delightful mix of water, rock, and adventure.

  1. White Pocket
Location: Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona
Distance: Varies

Views and Experiences: Often compared to The Wave, White Pocket boasts surreal, swirling rock formations that seem almost otherworldly. The remote location ensures a peaceful and serene experience, allowing hikers to marvel at the intricate patterns and colors that nature has carved into the sandstone.

  1. Antelope Canyon - Lower Canyon


Location: Page, Arizona
Distance: Around 0.5 miles

Views and Experiences: This short but stunning hike takes you through narrow, sculpted passageways adorned with light beams that create an ethereal atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow against the smooth sandstone walls makes this hike a photographer's dream.

  1. Cathedral Rock Trail
Location: Sedona, Arizona
Distance: Roughly 1.5 miles

Views and Experiences: Despite its relatively short length, this trail offers a challenging climb that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations. The trail culminates on a saddle between the cathedral-like rock formations, providing an ideal spot to soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

In the vast expanse of the American Southwest, these hikes offer unique and surprising experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. From hidden slot canyons to panoramic vistas, each trail presents an opportunity to connect with nature in a profound and unforgettable way. So, grab your hiking boots and a sense of adventure, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of the Southwest.

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