Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park protects one of the steepest, narrowest, and most awe-inspiring canyons in North America. Carved by the powerful Gunnison River over millions of years, the canyon features vertical cliffs, dramatic spires, and the towering Painted Wall, the tallest cliff face in Colorado.

Type of Area

National Park

Address

View on Map

Nearest Town

Gunnison

Key Features

Park Size

Approximately 30,750 acres

Highest Point

Signal Hill: 8,775 ft

Major Wildlife

Black Bear; Mountain Lion; Bobcat; River Otter; Elk; Mule Deer; Pronghorn; Beaver; Coyote; Peregrine Falcon; Canyon Wren; American Dipper

Miles of Trail

Approx. 31

Popular Activities

Hiking; Scenic Driving; Rock Climbing; Fishing; Stargazing; Winter Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing; Photography; Wilderness Exploration

Scenic Views

Painted Wall; Gunnison Point; Chasm View; Oak Flat Trail; Uplands Trail; Rim Rock Trail; North Vista Trail

WiFi Access

Not available in the park. Cell service is unreliable.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall for temperate conditions and open access; Winter invites solitude and snow-based activities but with limited access.

Overview

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park preserves one of the most dramatic landscapes in North America. The Gunnison River has carved a steep and narrow gorge through nearly two-billion-year-old rock, exposing some of the oldest geologic formations on the continent. The sheer cliffs and shadowed depths give the canyon its name, as sunlight barely reaches certain parts of the canyon floor. The park offers visitors a chance to experience rugged wilderness where geology, wildlife, and dark skies combine for a unique natural setting. With its dramatic overlooks, limited but rewarding hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing, climbing, and fishing, Black Canyon is a destination for those seeking striking scenery and solitude.

Maps

The map included in the park’s brochure provides visitors with a clear visual layout of Black Canyon’s landscape. It includes marked overlooks, access roads, trailheads, and essential navigational landmarks. An interactive version is also available via the National Park Service website, offering features such as selectable points of interest, different viewing modes, and a “locate me” GPS function for real-time orientation.

Entrances & Fees

Park Entrances

South Rim Entrance (near Montrose): This is the park’s main gateway and the most accessible year-round. Visitors entering here find the South Rim Visitor Center, paved scenic drives with multiple overlooks, and shorter hiking trails that provide dramatic canyon views without long treks. It serves as the best starting point for first-time visitors. North Rim Entrance (near Crawford): Reached by a gravel road, this entrance offers a quieter and less developed side of the park. With fewer crowds and basic facilities, it provides access to remote overlooks and rugged terrain. The North Rim appeals to travelers seeking solitude and uninterrupted views of the canyon’s wild character. East Portal Entrance (to Gunnison River): A narrow, steep road drops directly into the canyon, ending near the Gunnison River and Crystal Dam. This route gives visitors a chance to stand at river level, fish in the canyon waters, or experience the dramatic cliffs from below. The descent is striking, but access is limited to warmer months due to safety concerns.

Fees & Passes

Visitors to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park are required to pay an entrance fee unless they hold a valid federal interagency pass. The park has transitioned to a fully cashless payment system, so all fees must be paid electronically either in advance or at the entrance station.

Activities

Facilities

Accessibility & Seasonal Info

Accessibility

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a range of accommodations for visitors with mobility needs. The South Rim Visitor Center is fully accessible, with paved parking, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, making it a welcoming starting point for many visitors. Several overlooks along the South Rim such as Tomichi Point, Chasm View, and Sunset View provide wheelchair-friendly access, often with paved or compacted surfaces and nearby restrooms. While the North Rim and inner trails remain rugged and challenging, the park strives to increase accessibility wherever possible. Accessible camping sites, accessible restrooms, seating, and assistive audio materials further support inclusive visitation, although many overlooks and backcountry routes remain difficult to reach for those with limited mobility.

Seasonal Access & Weather

Seasonal road access and changing weather conditions strongly influence the experience at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Many parts of the park are open year-round, but access to the South Rim Road and North Rim Road is limited during the winter months due to snow, with plowing only maintained up to certain points. Visitors should prepare for variable conditions that can shift quickly. Summer offers warmer temperatures and clear access to trails and overlooks, while spring and fall bring cooler weather and colorful scenery. Winter creates a more remote and quiet experience, but travel requires preparation for snow, limited facilities, and reduced road access.

Seasonal Closures

Seasonal road and facility closures are a routine part of visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison, especially in the colder months when snow and ice can impact safe access. The South Rim Road beyond Gunnison Point typically closes to vehicles in winter, while other facilities may operate on limited schedules depending on weather conditions. Because closures can affect hiking, camping, and scenic drives, it is important for visitors to check current conditions before traveling. Staying updated ensures you can plan your trip around what areas of the park are open and accessible, and helps avoid unexpected changes that could disrupt your experience.

History & Culture

Black Canyon of the Gunnison holds deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by Indigenous peoples, early explorers, and conservationists. Its rugged beauty has inspired generations and continues to be preserved as a national treasure.

Geology & Ecology

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is defined by its dramatic cliffs and narrow gorge, carved over millions of years by the powerful flow of the Gunnison River. Beyond its geology, the park is home to a variety of plants and animals that thrive in its diverse environments. This blend of geology and wildlife makes the canyon a place of scientific significance and natural wonder.

Regulations & Considerations

Please abide by all park regulations during your visit.