Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
State: Colorado
Size: 30,780 acres
Topography: Canyon, River
Peak Season: Late Spring & Fall
Nearest Airport: Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) – 20 min
Nearest Town: Montrose, CO
Top 5 Hikes
Warner Point Nature Trail
Rim Rock Nature Trail
Gunnison Route Trail
Oak Flat Loop Trail
North Vista Trail (to Exclamation Point)
Points of Interest
South Rim: A scenic area offering dramatic views of the Black Canyon, with hiking opportunities.
Painted Wall: The tallest cliff in Colorado, known for its striking color patterns and rugged beauty.
Gunnison Point: A popular viewpoint offering stunning views of the deep, narrow canyon.
North Rim: A more rugged and remote area of the park with fewer visitors and breathtaking vistas.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking – Trails along the rim and steep descents into the canyon.
Rock Climbing – Home to some of the most challenging climbs in Colorado.
Fishing – Renowned for Gold Medal trout fishing in the Gunnison River.
Scenic Driving – Breathtaking views from the South and North Rim Roads.
Stargazing – A designated International Dark Sky Park.
Camping
South Rim Campground (frontcountry)
North Rim Campground (frontcountry)
East Portal Campground (frontcountry)
Backcountry camping (wilderness permits required)