No matter what time of year, the Grand Canyon is always inundated with tourists from all over the world. While we’re honored that so many people want to visit our stunning state, sometimes you just need a little solitude. Plus, we natives have been to the South Rim countless times, and while its majesty never fades, it’s nice to switch things up every once in a while. These seven spots in the Grand Canyon are hidden gems, unbeknownst to lifetime Arizonans and visitors alike.
- Grand Canyon East Entrance
Google/Bald Thoughts Since the South Rim is where most canyon visitors tend to congregate, you’ll enjoy a bit more solitude on the east side. The famed Horseshoe Bend is visible from here, so consider this a trick to experience it without craning your neck around a sea of people.
- Shinumo Creek
Flickr/kentsimer If your feet get tired from hiking, hop in a raft and explore some side canyons. Shinumo Creek culminates in a shallow, waterfall-fed pool that is perfect for splashing away the sweltering desert heat. The best part? You likely won’t have to share the space at all.
- Blacktail Canyon
Flickr/Al_HikesAZ Blacktail Canyon is another area accessible by boat. Unique, ancient rock formations and wildlife make the experience an unforgettable one.
- Clear Creek Trail to Cheyava Falls
Flickr/Al_HikesAZ Paralleling the pristine Clear Creek, this trail takes hikers on an unforgettable journey across the canyon floor. It passes Bright Angel Campground, where you’ll encounter a few dozen people at most (and likely a herd of bighorn sheep). Finally, upon reaching the tallest waterfall in Arizona, its majesty will overtake your every sense.
- Tonto Trail
Flickr/Al_HikesAZ While many trails wind through the Grand Canyon, they’re often plagued with bumper-to-bumper tourist traffic pretty much all year long. Tonto Trail in the South Rim is a 70-mile respite from the crowds. You don’t have to hike the entire thing, of course - just pick a segment and enjoy some solitude while marveling at the gently flowing Colorado River.
- Diamond Creek Road
Google/otello tronconi This road leading down into the canyon is so remote, you’ll need a permit from the Hualapai people to drive on it. If you so desire, there is a campground at the bottom. It doesn’t have facilities, but is still a viable option for those who would rather not traverse the risky route back out of the canyon after dark.
- North Rim
Flickr/Grand Canyon National Park A mere 5% of park visitors gravitate to the North Rim, which is much cooler and features plant and animal life unable to thrive in other parts of the canyon. The views are incredible and your photos won’t be filled with strangers.
Do you have a favorite lesser-known spot to experience the Grand Canyon? Let us know in the comments below!
Google/Bald Thoughts
Since the South Rim is where most canyon visitors tend to congregate, you’ll enjoy a bit more solitude on the east side. The famed Horseshoe Bend is visible from here, so consider this a trick to experience it without craning your neck around a sea of people.
Flickr/kentsimer
If your feet get tired from hiking, hop in a raft and explore some side canyons. Shinumo Creek culminates in a shallow, waterfall-fed pool that is perfect for splashing away the sweltering desert heat. The best part? You likely won’t have to share the space at all.
Flickr/Al_HikesAZ
Blacktail Canyon is another area accessible by boat. Unique, ancient rock formations and wildlife make the experience an unforgettable one.
Paralleling the pristine Clear Creek, this trail takes hikers on an unforgettable journey across the canyon floor. It passes Bright Angel Campground, where you’ll encounter a few dozen people at most (and likely a herd of bighorn sheep). Finally, upon reaching the tallest waterfall in Arizona, its majesty will overtake your every sense.
While many trails wind through the Grand Canyon, they’re often plagued with bumper-to-bumper tourist traffic pretty much all year long. Tonto Trail in the South Rim is a 70-mile respite from the crowds. You don’t have to hike the entire thing, of course - just pick a segment and enjoy some solitude while marveling at the gently flowing Colorado River.
Google/otello tronconi
This road leading down into the canyon is so remote, you’ll need a permit from the Hualapai people to drive on it. If you so desire, there is a campground at the bottom. It doesn’t have facilities, but is still a viable option for those who would rather not traverse the risky route back out of the canyon after dark.
Flickr/Grand Canyon National Park
A mere 5% of park visitors gravitate to the North Rim, which is much cooler and features plant and animal life unable to thrive in other parts of the canyon. The views are incredible and your photos won’t be filled with strangers.
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