6 Little Known Canyons That Will Show You A Side Of Colorado You’ve Never Seen Before

Located in southwest Colorado near the town of Montrose is that of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison; an amazing 48-mile-long ravine that houses the beautiful Gunnison River, unique hiking opportunities (via one of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park's seven designated trails), and views of the 5th steepest mountain descent in America.

While not as steep as the Black Canyon, Eldorado Canyon is just as beautiful! Named one of the "Ten State Parks You Can't Miss" by SmarterTravel, Eldorado Canyon is home to not only the jaw-dropping views you would expect, but also some of the best rock climbing in the state and animal sightings galore.

Never heard of Browns Canyon? That could be because it's one of the state's newer National Monuments, made official by (then) President Barack Obama in early 2015. What is there to do (aside from hiking and sightseeing)? Ride some of the best rapids in Colorado, of course!

Welcome to Castlewood Canyon State Park; a 2,621-acre park that is as historically significant as it is beautiful. What makes this state park - which is loaded with canyons - so historic? The area once housed the old Castlewood Canyon Dam, which burst in 1933 and spilled enough water to create a flood in Downtown Denver (25 miles north of the dam).

If you thought the Western Slope was beautiful before, wait until you experience it alongside the stunning Unaweep Canyon! Aside from the rocky canyon itself, Unaweep is unique in that two separate creeks flow at the opposite ends of the canyon, making it not only a canyon but a divide as well.

Last but certainly not least is Waldo Canyon, whose popular 6.9-mile-loop trail was sadly destroyed during the devastating 2012 Waldo Canyon Fire. It is still worth noting, as the area itself is now re-opened and worth visiting.