Hidden Gems in Zion That Most Visitors Miss

Zion National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country, drawing millions of adventurers each year to its towering red rock cliffs, winding slot canyons, and iconic trails. But while Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools steal most of the spotlight, there are countless other places that remain just outside the typical visitor’s radar. Zion is full of hidden gems—secluded canyons, breathtaking viewpoints, and exclusive spots that offer a whole new way to experience the park. Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds or simply want to explore Zion from a fresh perspective, these lesser-known locations will make you feel like you’ve uncovered something truly special.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Hikes with the Best Views in Zion

While Zion’s most famous hikes are undeniably stunning, they can also be packed with visitors, especially during peak season. For those looking for an escape into the quieter corners of the park, some lesser-known trails offer just as much beauty without the crowds. One of the most underrated hikes in the park is the East Rim Trail. While most visitors flock to the West Rim for Angel’s Landing, the East Rim offers equally breathtaking views and a peaceful journey through Zion’s rugged backcountry. The trail takes you through high desert landscapes and towering sandstone cliffs before rewarding you with one of the most incredible panoramic overlooks in the park.

For another hidden gem, consider exploring Many Pools. Located on the east side of Zion, this area is often overlooked but features a series of naturally carved sandstone basins that fill with water after rainstorms. The reflections of the towering rock formations in these pools make for a stunning and unique photographic opportunity. Because this isn’t an official park trail, you won’t find crowds here—just a peaceful, serene landscape that feels like it belongs to you alone.

Another incredible spot is Deertrap Mountain. This challenging but rewarding hike offers some of the best views in Zion, including a breathtaking overlook of Angels Landing—minus the stress of clinging to chains to get there. You’ll get an eagle-eye perspective of Zion Canyon, the winding Virgin River, and the surrounding cliffs, all while enjoying an escape from the bustling main trails.

Exclusive Views Only Accessible by Helicopter

Some of Zion’s most spectacular scenery isn’t accessible by foot at all—it’s best seen from the air. Zion helicopter tours offer a unique opportunity to witness the park’s hidden landscapes, taking you above and beyond what most visitors will ever experience. When you fly over Zion, you’ll get an entirely different perspective on its vast wilderness, uncovering canyons and rock formations that are impossible to reach on foot.

One of the most incredible aerial sights is Kolob Canyons, an area of the park that many visitors don’t even realize exists. With its towering red rock formations and deep, secluded valleys, Kolob Canyons is a paradise for those who love dramatic landscapes. From a helicopter, you can truly appreciate the sheer scale of these formations and see just how untouched this part of Zion really is.

Another unforgettable view from the sky is Smith Mesa. This massive plateau provides a stark contrast to the jagged cliffs of Zion, offering sweeping vistas that stretch for miles. Seeing it from a helicopter gives you a full appreciation of how Zion’s diverse landscapes come together, from rolling desert plains to towering sandstone peaks.

Then there’s Canaan Mountain, an absolutely breathtaking section of the park that’s far removed from the main tourist trails. Here, you’ll find towering rock formations, hidden slot canyons, and sheer cliffs that make for some of the most jaw-dropping aerial views in the Southwest. A Zion helicopter tour is the only way to experience this incredible landscape from above, and it’s an adventure you won’t forget.

Hidden Slot Canyons and Secret Passages

Zion is famous for its slot canyons, but beyond The Narrows and Antelope Canyon, there are several lesser-known spots that offer an even more secluded experience. One of the best-kept secrets is Red Hollow Slot Canyon, a stunning and relatively easy-to-access slot canyon that offers the same twisting rock formations and narrow passages as its more famous counterparts—but without the crowds.

Another incredible hidden canyon is Shelf Canyon. Tucked away from the main areas of the park, this little-known slot canyon is a short but rewarding hike that leads to a dramatic, narrow chasm carved by centuries of rushing water. The towering walls, smooth sandstone curves, and quiet atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, Fat Man’s Misery is a slot canyon that lives up to its name. With tight squeezes, breathtaking formations, and sections that require some serious scrambling, this off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a unique Zion experience.

Remote Jeep Tours to Zion’s Best-Kept Secrets

If you’re looking for adventure beyond the main park roads, a Jeep tour is one of the best ways to access Zion’s hidden landscapes. These guided off-road tours take you deep into the backcountry, exploring areas that most visitors will never see.

One of the most incredible spots to visit on a Jeep tour is the Zion Lava Ridge Mesa. This rugged, off-the-grid location offers some of the best panoramic views of Zion, stretching across the Virgin River Basin and West Temple. As you ride up the winding dirt roads, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning sunset views in the entire park.

For those who love a bit of history with their adventure, the Grafton Ghost Town Jeep Tour is a must. Grafton is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the Southwest, with abandoned buildings and remnants of a once-thriving pioneer settlement. The journey to Grafton takes you through beautiful desert landscapes before arriving at this fascinating historic site.

Another hidden gem accessible by Jeep is Eagle Crags. This lesser-known area of Zion features towering rock spires and a remote wilderness feel. With hardly any other visitors around, you’ll feel like you have the entire landscape to yourself.

Why You Should Go Beyond the Tourist Hotspots

While Zion’s famous landmarks are absolutely worth visiting, there’s something special about exploring the park’s hidden corners. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer a deeper connection to the landscape, a chance to experience Zion’s beauty without the crowds, and the thrill of discovering something that most visitors miss. Whether you’re hiking to a remote overlook, flying over untouched canyons, or off-roading to a secret vista, Zion’s hidden gems provide a level of adventure and solitude that’s hard to find anywhere else.

If you’re ready to see Zion from a whole new perspective, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden trails. From hidden slot canyons and exclusive aerial views to remote backcountry adventures, there’s so much more to Zion than meets the eye. All it takes is a little curiosity—and a willingness to explore.

Created On 17 Feb 2025