Many levels in Sonic Colors: Ultimate feature hidden paths that lead to Red Star Rings, extra Wisps, or shortcuts. Look for:

- Suspicious Walls/Floors: Areas with cracks, different textures, or subtle visual cues might be destructible with Boost or a specific Wisp (e.g., Yellow Drill, Blue Cube, Purple Frenzy).
- Off-Screen Platforms: Use the Orange Rocket or Green Hover to reach platforms that are just out of sight.
- Reflective Surfaces: Cyan Laser can open new paths by bouncing off specific panels or activating distant switches.
- Inverted Sections: Pink Spikes allow you to roll on ceilings and walls, revealing upside-down routes.
- Wisp-Specific Obstacles: If you see a transparent barrier, think Green Hover. If you see blue blocks, think Blue Cube.
Always explore thoroughly, and don't be afraid to backtrack if you acquire a new Wisp that might open a previously inaccessible area.