A couple of years ago, during the all tumult caused by congresses shutting down the federal government, I had already made plans to hike the Grand Canyon. I had lived in western New Mexico for almost three years and had never seen it! Unfortunately, as the fixed date of my entry into the park drew nearer, it became clear that I was going to have to make alternate plans. Fortunately for me, The Four Corners has more than enough incredible geological gems to spare, apart from the Grand Canyon. Although most American families make their pilgrimage to this wonder of the world at some point, few people stay to explore other rich scenery of the area. Here is a list of 7 breathtaking places to visit in the American Southwest that are often overshadowed by the Grand Canyon.
1. Bryce Canyon National Park, Kane County, Utah
It’s practically impossible to take a bad photo of Bryce Canyon. The magnificent hoodoos are just begging for a photo op. The canyon itself is much smaller than it often seems in pictures, and you can hike the entire canyon loop in a few hours, as the longest trail is about 5 miles. Just remember that Bryce has an elevation of about 8,000 ft. so stay hydrated and walk as slow as you wish. More time to savor the scenery.
2. Antelope Canyon, near Page, Arizona
Antelope Canyon is otherworldly. It’s a bit more expensive than national park attractions, as it’s located on the Navajo Nation. The price includes a guided tour, which is required since a flash flood killed quite a few people back in the 90’s. The tour guides are knowledgeable and point out some fascinating nooks and crannies. Climbing down into the canyon has to be the highlight. You just disappear and end up somewhere completely different.
3. Horseshoe Bend, near Page, Arizona
As long as you’re in the neighborhood, you might as well take the short hike out to Horseshoe Bend, also near Page. The Colorado River has created more than one jaw dropping wonder. Rocks jutting out, overlooking the scene make perfect lookout points.
4. Monument Valley, Arizona-Utah State line
It’s easy to see why so many westerns were filmed here. Although there’s not much in the way of civilization for miles and miles, if you’re a hiker, there’s plenty to explore.
5. Arches National Park, near Moab, Utah
There is no shortage of hiking at Arches. There are so many hikes and each one is longer and more scenic than the last. Just make sure to bring water. I did the 7 mile hike in July (would not recommend) and the soles of my shoes melted off. They did. That’s true. It was hot. But beautiful.
5. Canyonlands National Park, near Moab, Utah
Just around the corner from Arches is Canyonlands. It’s eponymous moniker doesn’t disappoint. Canyons, canyons, and more canyons in every direction. Not to mention that Moab, Utah is a hip and fun little city. If you’ve worked up too much of a sweat or need to escape a sandstorm (the latter happened on one my camping trips, sand in my teeth and eyes drove me to shelter), spend an afternoon browsing bookshops and bike stores, or check out the Moab Brewery.
6. Zion National Park, Kane County, Utah
Kane County is blessed with some topographical beauties. Among them, you can count Zion National Park. Zion can be beheld in so many ways. You can drive it, hike it, climb it, camp it. Just go see it.
7. Canyon de Chelly National Park
Although this picture does no kind of justice to this park in northeast Arizona, if you’re interested in indigenous cultures, archaeology, history, or jaw-dropping scenery, Canyon de Chelly is fascinating and breathtaking. It’s actually a national monument of ancient ruins of puebloans, with three layers of ruins to climb and explore.
Lastly, I know this is a post about parks other than the Grand Canyon, but seriously, the Grand Canyon is pretty amazing too.
Lauren Crowley is an international English and literature teacher. She’s an enthusiastic reader, writer, eater, and learner.
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