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11 Canyon Hikes That Turn Scorching Summer Heat Into The Coolest Adventure Of Your Life
When summer cranks up the temperature to “what even is this” levels, finding a way to stay active without melting into a puddle can feel like a real quest. Luckily, canyon hikes offer the perfect escape.
Think shaded trails, towering rock walls, and that sweet, sweet drop in temperature; it’s almost like getting air conditioning outside. And they’re not just about staying cool either; these hikes come packed with jaw-dropping views, a little adventure, and maybe even some unexpected surprises along the way.
It’s the perfect excuse to flee the heat and feel like a total explorer. So stick around because we’re about to go through some of the coolest canyon hikes you’ll want to add to your must-try list.
Kanarra Creek Canyon, Utah
Kanarra Creek Canyon is the perfect mix of adventure and “wait, am I really doing this?” You get to hike through a stunning slot canyon, splash through ankle-deep (and sometimes knee-deep) water, and drumroll please… climb a waterfall using a ladder and chains. Yes, a ladder.
It reminds me of an obstacle course, and for those who think a Peloton is wild, this might be your shot to upgrade. Daily permits are capped at 150, so you won’t be elbowing through crowds, and it keeps the canyon as pristine as your first sip of coffee in the morning.
The views? Unreal. The ladder climb? Worth every slippery step. Bring water shoes and prepare to impress no one with your graceful maneuvering.
The Narrows Trail, Zion NP, Utah
The Narrows is less of a “take a stroll” kind of hike and more of a “you’re hiking IN the river” kind of ordeal. This is where you’ll wade, splash, and maybe even doggy-paddle through the Virgin River, all while hemmed in by canyon walls as close as 40 feet apart.
It’s like walking into a screensaver, but significantly wetter. If you’re feeling ambitious, the full trek spans 16 miles, offering enough time to contemplate your footwear choices and life in general.
Keep an eye on the weather, though, because flash floods turn this dreamy adventure into a scene from an action movie real fast. Gear rentals are a lifesaver and easy to find. You’ll thank me when your feet still function after sloshing through water all day.
Wire Pass Slot Canyon, Utah
Wire Pass feels like stepping into a maze made just for you. It’s twisty, narrow, and filled with those “holy moly, look at that wall!” moments. And this slot canyon near Buckskin Gulch is famous for its tight squeezes, so if personal space is your thing, prepare to get over it quickly.
The carved sandstone walls are so stunning, you’ll almost forget you’re shimmying like it’s a team-building exercise. Watch out for flash floods here, though; it’s all fun and games until the rain wants in.
With fewer crowds and plenty of golden light bouncing off the walls, this hike is a secret escape. Just bring a snack… you’ll burn calories like you’re on a treadmill that actually entertains.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon gives you slot canyon magic, but make it guided. Navajo tour companies lead you through this jaw-dropping landscape, and they know these canyons upside down and sideways. And the walls are all dramatic swirls of orange and gold, like the desert is showing off.
Morning tours are a genius move. Not only will you skip the heat and crowds, but the light beams filtering through the rock formations? Unreal. It’s less “do it yourself” and more “follow the leader,” but the guides’ stories and expertise make it a whole other level of cool.
And the terrain is easy enough that you can focus on enjoying the views and not on whether your knees will give out halfway through.
Seven Mile Hole Trail, Yellowstone NP, Wyoming
There’s nothing “hole” about Seven Mile Hole. Consider it a plunge into pure awesomeness (by which I mean a knee-jarring descent into the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park).
The trail leads you past jaw-dropping scenery, volcanic rock formations, and the real showstopper, Silver Cord Cascade, a waterfall so delicate and lovely it practically whispers, “Paint me.” And sure, the hike back up might have you questioning your fitness level, but hey, it’s worth it for the bragging rights and the front-row seat to one of Yellowstone’s most iconic scenes.
Plus, it’s Yellowstone; you’re hiking on top of a supervolcano, which somehow feels both thrilling and mildly concerning. Just keep an eye out for geysers and roaming bison. This isn’t your average neighborhood trail after all.
Goldstrike Canyon, Nevada
If you’ve ever fantasized about feeling like Indiana Jones (minus the snakes, hopefully), Goldstrike Canyon has your name all over it. This canyoneering route is no casual stroll; it throws in seven dry waterfalls just to keep things spicy.
Scramble, climb, and occasionally scoot on your backside (a legitimate outdoor technique, I swear) as you make your way to the pièce de résistance: natural hot springs with front-row views of the Hoover Dam. It’s part workout, part spa day, all adventure.
Along the way, you’ll encounter a ruggedly gorgeous desert landscape that makes you ponder moving to Nevada. And remember, wading through hot springs beats sitting in cubicle air-conditioning any day… unless you’re into spreadsheets, in which case, carry on.
Santa Elena Canyon, Big Bend NP, Texas
Santa Elena Canyon isn’t just a hike; it’s a ticket to another world. The trail winds through towering walls of rock, carved by the Rio Grande over millions of years, and yes, it’s every bit as dramatic as it sounds. In fact, the canyon feels far removed from human civilization, which makes it the perfect spot to soak up nature in all its unfiltered glory.
You’ll follow the riverbank, occasionally stepping into the cool waters of the Rio Grande (why not, it will help cool you off). And be on the lookout for herons and turtles as you walk.
While the cliffs rise high enough to make you feel small, the views are big enough to make you forget that email notification creeping onto your smartwatch. Nature > Inbox. Every time.
Emerald Pools Recreation Area, California
Emerald Pools is proof that canyon adventuring doesn’t always have to leave you covered in dust and regret. Trails here weave between waterfalls, swimming holes, and rugged canyon terrain that belongs on the front of a chocolate box.
The water is pristine enough to make bottled brands jealous, and it’s cool enough to slap the summer right off of you. Bring a swimsuit, because splashing around in turquoise pools before following the trails to cascading falls is the whole point.
And if you’re not a fan of hiking on an empty stomach, plan a trailside snack break. Nothing shouts luxury quite like munching granola next to a waterfall. Be sure to watch your footing so you don’t “accidentally” end up testing those swimming holes early.
Hickman Bridge Trail, Capitol Reef NP, Utah
This little trail in Capitol Reef National Park is proof that good things often come in compact packages (except those tiny bags of chips; they’re mostly air). The hike up to Hickman Bridge isn’t terribly long, but it does have enough incline to make you mutter “who needs stairs?” once or twice.
Your reward? A stunning 133-ft natural bridge that looks like it could’ve been assembled by a giant playing with building blocks.
The trail also weaves through a canyon, offering a blend of red rock magic and the occasional shady nook, perfect for catching your breath while pretending to admire the flora.
Little Grand Canyon, Illinois
Calling this the “Little Grand Canyon” feels a bit ambitious, but it does pack a lot into a small space. You’ll wind your way down through sandstone walls that look like they’ve been artfully chiseled by a very determined sculptor (probably with a vendetta against smooth rocks).
Seasonal waterfalls make appearances when they feel like gracing us, so don’t get too attached to the idea unless it recently rained. And the 350-ft elevation drop will certainly remind your legs that gravity is a thing, but the views at the bottom are worth the cardio.
Pro tip: Wear shoes with decent grip unless you’re in the mood to turn this into a scenic slip-and-slide adventure.
Tioga West Rim Trail, Pennsylvania
If you’ve got 30 miles of leg energy stored up, the Tioga West Rim Trail is calling your name. This hike hugs the rim of Pine Creek Gorge, which some call Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, though it’s more of a charming cousin than a twin.
The trail serves up a buffet of overlooks where you can gasp at the sprawling views or just gasp because, well, 30 miles. Along the way, you’ll stumble across enchanting side-gorges and a forest so picturesque it feels staged.
But don’t get too distracted. You’ll want to remember where you’re going unless camping in the middle of nowhere is your thing.
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