Visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: A Comprehensive Guide
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a hidden gem among U.S. national parks, offering jaw-dropping landscapes yet remaining relatively under-visited. Here’s your ultimate guide on how to explore and make the most of your trip to this incredible location.
About Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Contrary to what most people think, the Black Canyon isn’t named for its dark rock walls. It’s actually because the steep and deep canyon walls allow sunlight to reach the bottom for only a few minutes each day. Hence, much of the park is shrouded in shadow, earning it the name “Black Canyon.”
The park was first designated as a national monument in 1933, but it wasn’t until 1999 that it became a national park. Much of its area is considered wilderness, particularly the canyon itself, which is categorized as backcountry.
With about 200,000 annual visitors, it’s not the least-visited park but certainly quieter compared to some of the more famous ones. Most visitors flock to the south rim, which offers the best viewpoints, while the north rim remains a more secluded and adventurous option.
Exploring the South Rim
The South Rim is where you’ll find most of the park’s amenities, including a road, visitor center, campground, and various trails and viewpoints. Here, you can marvel at the vertical walls of the north rim. Thanks to the natural erosion processes, the south rim offers angled views of the canyon, making for stunning photographic opportunities.
Venturing to the North Rim
The North Rim is more rugged and less visited, providing a different but equally compelling experience. It’s further from main roads, which reduces the number of tourists. Although its roads are unpaved and there are fewer viewpoints, the hikes are rewarding. My personal favorite is the trail to Exclamation Point. The North Rim also has a small campground and ranger station.
Location and Access
Black Canyon of the Gunnison is situated in west-central Colorado along the Gunnison River, near Montrose. Access points for both rims are quite a distance from the town of Gunnison, but the park is conveniently located along US-50, a major east-west route through central Colorado. Be mindful of construction on US-50, which can complicate travel from the east.
The South Rim entrance is near Montrose, making it a convenient spot to find accommodation. The North Rim entrance is close to Crawford, another option for lodging but more remote.
Traveling Between Rims
Traveling between the South and North Rims is a bit more demanding than you might expect. There are no direct routes within the park, requiring you to exit and travel through external roads. Expect at least a two-hour journey between the rims.
For this journey, from the South Rim, exit to US-50W towards Montrose, then head to Delta, and take CO-92E to Crawford. Be prepared for some rural, unpaved roads. Don’t worry, as they are usually in good condition.
Upon entering the North Rim, you can explore towards the campground and ranger station or head to various viewpoints. The same route will get you back to the South Rim.
Top Hiking Trails
Warner Point Nature Trail: A moderate, 1.5-mile round trip from the High Point Overlook on the South Rim. It offers lovely canyon views and is a key entry point for more adventurous inter-canyon travel (permits required).
Deadhorse Trail: An easy, 5-mile round trip on the east end of the North Rim. Though a pleasant hike, you might prefer the North Vista Trail for more dramatic views.
North Vista Trail: A moderate to strenuous trail offering 3 miles to Exclamation Point and 7 miles to Green Mountain. Exclamation Point delivers some of the best views in the park.
Scenic Viewpoints
The park is dotted with numerous viewpoints, both quick stops and longer walks up to half a mile. Favorites include Chasm Point, Sunset View, Kneeling Camel, and Narrows. You can generally skip adjacent viewpoints as the views don’t vary much.
Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise: Painted Wall on the South Rim provides a stunning sunrise backdrop. On the North Rim, Chasm View is also excellent, though it’s better suited for sunset.
Sunset: Sunset Point on the South Rim is aptly named and offers a beautiful end to the day. On the North Rim, Chasm View remains the top spot for sunset views.
Inner Canyon Travel
Exploring the inner canyon is considered backcountry travel and requires a permit. Consult park rangers for the best entry points and ensure you’re prepared for self-rescue, as some areas are difficult to access for emergency services.
One Day Itinerary
If you’re short on time, start early to take in both rims in one day. Begin at sunrise on the South Rim at either Painted Wall or Devil’s Lookout. Continue exploring the viewpoints and take the Warner Point Nature Trail hike. On your way back to the visitor center, stop at key viewpoints.
Head to Montrose for brunch—Lighthouse Eatery is a local favorite. Then drive about 90 minutes to the North Rim. Explore the viewpoints, and don’t miss the hike to Exclamation Point.
Accommodation Options
Camping: The South Rim has 88 campsites with 23 offering electric hookups (reservations recommended in summer). The North Rim is more primitive with 13 sites, all first-come, first-serve, and suitable for small RVs without hookups.
Hotels: Nearby towns offer various accommodations. In Montrose, consider the Holiday Inn Express or Stay Wise Montrose. For the North Rim, Hotchkiss Inn Motel or Quality Inn Delta are good options.
Basic Information
Visitor Centers: The main visitor center is in the South Rim. The North Rim has a ranger station with limited information and operates intermittently in the summer.
Fees:
– 7-Day Vehicle Pass: $30
– 7-Day Motorcycle Pass: $25
– 7-Day Individual Pass: $15 (pedestrian or bicycle)
– Black Canyon Annual Pass: $55
– America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80
Getting There:
– South Rim: Easily accessible along US-50.
– North Rim: More remote, accessed via CO-92 and various unpaved roads.
Travel Distances:
– South Rim: Montrose (13 miles, 20 mins), Denver (270 miles, 5 hours), Grand Junction (73 miles, 90 mins)
– North Rim: Delta (45 miles, 1 hour), Crawford (13 miles, 30 mins), Denver (255 miles, 5 hours)
Tips & FAQs:
1. If limited on time, focus on the South Rim. It’s easier to access and offers more amenities.
2. Inner canyon travel is for experienced adventurers only.
3. Arrive early for the best experience and fewer crowds.
4. Visiting both rims in one day is possible but expect a lengthy and busy day.
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