Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

The Gunnison River has carved an extraordinarily steep canyon through dark rock. The South Rim’s overlooks offer a dramatic introduction, with short stops that invite you to look longer at the cliffs and shadows.

Black Canyon near Tomichi Point
NPS Photo/Lynch · Photography credit

Black Canyon near Painted Wall
NPS Photo/Lynch · Photography credit

BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

01South Rim overlooks
02Gunnison Point
03Painted Wall View

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Before you set out

Choose the rim and approach before setting out. Rim trails can have abrupt drop-offs, and seasonal road access varies.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.