Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Created by the flow of the Gunnison River through hard ancient rocks, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is unlike any other in the national park system. Located at the western edge of the Rocky Mountains, about 250 miles southwest of Denver, this breathtaking park features sheer black canyon walls, carved from schist and gneiss, and gorges that sometimes reach 2,700 feet in depth.

The awesome Black Canyon on the Gunnison National Park is the newest addition to the park system, changed from monument to park in October 1999. Thanks to its steep cliffs and raging waters, it has quickly become a favorite destination of adventure vacationers who travel there to experience extreme outdoor activities.

Hiking in Black Canyon is an adventure for the intermediate to experienced hiker, though there is one short trails designated as “easy”. Others involve narrow passages and steep slopes that may be dangerous for inexperienced trekkers. If you wish to hike the inner canyon, be aware that there are no marked trails and that it’s easy to lose your way. Hikers should bring high-energy foods, plenty of water, and any equipment necessary for self-rescue. Winter hiking in the inner canyon requires snowshoes, crampons, and an ice axe.

Similarly, advanced rock climbers love the Black Canyon. Here they can climb the tallest vertical wall in the state of Colorado (The Painted Wall) as well as an additional 144 known climbing spots. Peak climbing season is from mid-April to early June and mid-September to early November.

The portion of the Gunnison River that runs through the national park is not raftable, but kayakers find it to be one of the country’s most exciting rivers. The wild whitewater found here reaches up to Class V rapids and provides a thrilling ride for the most experienced kayakers.

A designated “Gold Medal River,” the Gunnison provides excellent trout fishing for avid anglers. The Gold Medal waters begin 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam and continue to the North Fork of the Gunnison River.

Winter activities include cross country skiing on the South Rim Drive and snowshoe trekking at Oak Flat Loop and Rim Rock Trail. Snowshoeing in the inner canyon is not recommended. Winter visitors should always bring extra layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

There are two developed campgrounds at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The North Rim Campground has 13 sites with vault toilets, tables and grills and is open from spring until fall. The South Rim Campground has 88 sites with the same amenities. A portion of this campground is open year round. Motels, hotels, and other lodging options are available in nearby towns.

Guests can reach the South Rim of the park via U.S. Highway 50 and CO Highway 347 from Montrose. The North Rim is located 11 miles south of Crawford, via CO Highway 92 and North Rim Road (unpaved). There is no bridge between the north and south rims of the canyon. Allow two to three hours to drive from one side to the other.

Late spring is the perfect time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park as the temperatures are comfortable, especially at the rims. Many visitors head here in the summer as well, but temperatures can reach as high as 100 degrees during the daytime hours, making it necessary to dress lightly. Temperatures are much colder in the inner canyon, so be prepared.

Contact:
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
102 Elk Creek
Gunnison, CO 81230
(970) 641-2337