About
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located in the western part of the United States in the western part of the state of Colorado. The national park boundaries encompass an area 48 square miles (124.4 sq km) and follow 12 miles of the Gunnison River.
The canyon extends beyond the park boundaries in both directions, but the steepest, deeper, and more stunning features of the canyon occur in the national park area. There are parts of the canyon that only get 33 minutes of sunlight during the day, which is what led to the name of the park.
Author Duane Vandenbusche describes the canyon in this way, “Several canyons of the American West are longer, and some are deeper, but none combines the depth, sheerness, narrowness, darkness, and dread of the Black Canyon.” The walls of the canyon are steep and narrow making it hard for sunlight to reach down into the canyon.
Plantlife that visitors can expect to see include aspen, desert mahogany, Ponderosa pine, sagebrush, single-leaf ash, and Utah juniper. Predator wildlife includes black bear, bobcat, cougar, coyote, and then two species of eagles and eight species of hawks.
Other popular wildlife includes beaver, elk, mule deer, pronghorn, river otter, and raccoon.
Photos
Things to See
There are scenic drives that follow along US Highway 50, Colorado Highway 92, and the south rim with lookouts along the way. The incredibly steep, narrow, and daunting canyon walls are the pinnacle attraction of the national park.
There are several hiking opportunities that are not too long in the distance that afford spectacular views of Black Canyon and the Gunnison River below. The Green Mountain trail is one of the most strenuous in the park, but it provides the most picturesque panoramic views of the canyon and Gunnison area.
The park is easily rated for the more adventurous and more athletic outdoorsmen. Kayaking and rafting feature class III-V ratings and impassible places where challenging porting are expected. Those who are skilled and confident with kayaking and rafting are the recommended participants.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located in western Colorado, USA, offers one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes in the American West.
Known for its steep, dark, and narrow canyons, the park reveals two billion years of Earth’s geological history, visible in the stark, towering cliffs and craggy spires.
The Gunnison River, having carved this magnificent canyon over millions of years, flows at the bottom, its roar barely reaching the dizzying heights of the canyon’s rim. The canyon’s depth and the narrowness create a unique ecosystem, with the river’s riparian habitats supporting diverse wildlife and plant species.
The park’s name, “Black Canyon,” derives from the fact that some parts of the gorge only receive a few minutes of sunlight a day, emphasizing the profound depth and sheer walls that can be nearly 2,700 feet (820 meters) tall.
Offering breathtaking vistas, challenging hikes, and stellar stargazing opportunities, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a testament to nature’s power and beauty.
Canyon Creatures
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, with its profound depths and sheer cliffs, creates a unique environment for wildlife. Amidst this rugged landscape, a variety of species have adapted to thrive, making the park a fascinating destination for wildlife enthusiasts. From the canyon’s rim to its riverine floors, each animal plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, contributing to the park’s natural diversity and allure.
Mule Deer – Often seen at dawn or dusk, these large-eared deer are a common sight, gracefully navigating the terrain in search of vegetation.
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep – Majestic and agile, these sheep are perfectly adapted to the steep cliffs, their presence a symbol of the park’s wild essence.
Peregrine Falcon – Known for their incredible speed, these birds of prey nest on the canyon’s cliffs, diving to catch their prey mid-air.
Golden Eagle – Soaring high above the canyon, Golden Eagles are a breathtaking sight, their keen eyes scouting for rabbits and other small mammals.
Black Bear – While sightings are rare, Black Bears roam the park’s forests, foraging for berries, nuts, and occasionally small mammals.
Mountain Lion – Elusive apex predators, Mountain Lions patrol the park’s vast landscapes, a testament to the wilderness that defines Black Canyon.
Great Horned Owl – With their deep hoots echoing at night, Great Horned Owls dominate the nighttime, hunting small mammals and birds.
American Dipper – Unique among North American birds for their underwater foraging, Dippers can be seen along the Gunnison River, diving and “flying” through the water.
Elk – Larger than mule deer, Elk migrate through the park seasonally, their bugles in autumn adding to the park’s wild chorus.
Turkey Vulture – Circling the skies above the canyon, Turkey Vultures are cleanup crew, feeding on carrion and playing a vital role in the ecosystem.
Colorado Chipmunk – Quick and curious, these chipmunks are often spotted by visitors along trails and at overlooks, adding a playful spirit to the landscape.
Each species found in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park adds to the richness of visitors’ experiences, showcasing the adaptability and beauty of life in one of nature’s most dramatic settings.
Things To Do
Engaging the Black Canyon
Hiking
Traversing the rugged terrain of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park via its extensive network of hiking trails is a popular way to experience its breathtaking beauty up close.
Trails like the Rim Rock Nature Trail and the Warner Point Trail offer panoramic vistas of the canyon’s sheer cliffs and the Gunnison River below, providing opportunities for both casual strolls and challenging treks.
Scenic Drives
Embarking on a scenic drive along the South Rim Road or the North Rim Road is a fantastic way to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
These winding roads offer numerous overlooks and viewpoints, allowing visitors to marvel at the canyon’s dramatic rock formations and the swift-flowing Gunnison River as it carves its way through the rugged terrain.
Rafting
Navigating the exhilarating rapids of the Gunnison River through the heart of Black Canyon is an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers. Guided rafting trips offer the chance to experience the canyon’s rugged beauty from a unique perspective, as expert guides lead participants through Class III and IV rapids while providing insights into the area’s geology and history.
With towering cliffs rising on either side and the rush of whitewater beneath, rafting in Black Canyon offers an adrenaline-pumping journey through one of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes.
Whether embarking on a half-day excursion or a multi-day adventure, rafting enthusiasts are sure to be captivated by the raw power and scenic grandeur of the Gunnison River as it carves its way through the imposing canyon walls.
Hiking
Traversing the rugged terrain of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park via its extensive network of hiking trails is a popular way to experience its breathtaking beauty up close.
Trails like the Rim Rock Nature Trail and the Warner Point Trail offer panoramic vistas of the canyon’s sheer cliffs and the Gunnison River below, providing opportunities for both casual strolls and challenging treks.
Scenic Drives
Embarking on a scenic drive along the South Rim Road or the North Rim Road is a fantastic way to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
These winding roads offer numerous overlooks and viewpoints, allowing visitors to marvel at the canyon’s dramatic rock formations and the swift-flowing Gunnison River as it carves its way through the rugged terrain.
Rafting
Navigating the exhilarating rapids of the Gunnison River through the heart of Black Canyon is an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers. Guided rafting trips offer the chance to experience the canyon’s rugged beauty from a unique perspective, as expert guides lead participants through Class III and IV rapids while providing insights into the area’s geology and history.
With towering cliffs rising on either side and the rush of whitewater beneath, rafting in Black Canyon offers an adrenaline-pumping journey through one of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes.
Whether embarking on a half-day excursion or a multi-day adventure, rafting enthusiasts are sure to be captivated by the raw power and scenic grandeur of the Gunnison River as it carves its way through the imposing canyon walls.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Trails
The park is for the more adventurous and it is important to note that trails have access to the steep canyon walls. It is important to pay attention to where you walk and pay close attention to children.
Cedar Point Nature Trail
This south rim easy trail is short and provides visitors with a stunning lookout of the river below. The canyon walls reach heights over 2,000 feet (609.6 m) with the pinnacle sighting occurring at the renowned Painted Wall at 2,250 feet (685.8 m). The trail is two-thirds of a mile round trip. This is a south rim trail.
Chasm View Nature Trail
The trail meanders through pinyon and juniper forest which create opportunities to see some of the raptor species of birds. The end of the trail provides a scenic lookout of the canyon walls, in particular, a stunning view of Painted Wall and Serpent Point. This is a north rim trail.
Dead Horse Trail
This 5-mile round trip trail provides hikers with views of Deadhorse gulch and the East Portal. The trail ranges from easy to moderate and passes past a pond along the way. It’s another view of the canyon, however, this can be a longer hike that some may find challenging. This is a north rim trail.
North Vista Trail
This trail has an option to end at Exclamation Point which is 3 miles round trip or venturing on to Green Mountain which is 7 miles round trip. The journey becomes more challenging and can be rather difficult for many participants the further along the trail you go. However, the adventure is worth it with Green Mountain lookouts offering some of the most stunning panoramic views of Black Canyon and the Gunnison area.
Oak Flat Loop Trail
This trail is more challenging featuring steep slopes and narrow pathways. Adventurers can look forward to passing through aspen groves, rock outcrops, and oak scrub as they descend down to the river floor. This trail is 2 miles round trip and is more demanding on hikers. This is a south rim trail.
Rim Rock Nature Trail
This trail provides a series of lookouts out over the canyon walls and river below. The trail is fairly even path without much elevation change that is a 1-mile round trip journey along the south rim of the canyon. This is a south rim trail.
Warner Point Nature Trail
This is a trail allowing hikers to engage more of nature as you meander through mountain mahogany, pinyon pine, serviceberry, and juniper. A scenic view of the Gunnison River and Black Canyon await the end of the journey. Along the way, there are views of Bostwick Park, San Juan Mountains, and the Uncompahgre Valley. This is a south rim trail.
Rim Rock Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This accessible, paved trail offers stunning views of the Black Canyon and the Gunnison River below. Ideal for families and those looking for a leisurely walk, the Rim Rock Trail connects the visitor center to the campground, winding through pinyon and juniper forests with several overlooks providing breathtaking canyon vistas.
Oak Flat Loop Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 400 feet (122 meters)
Description: Diverging from the South Rim near the visitor center, the Oak Flat Loop dips below the rim, offering hikers a closer look at the inner canyon’s ecology without the technical challenges of the inner canyon routes. Expect steep sections, diverse vegetation, and unique views of the canyon walls.
Warner Point Nature Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 200 feet (61 meters)
Description: Located at the end of the South Rim Road, this trail offers a mix of high desert and canyon views, extending to the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Valley, and the Gunnison River. Interpretive signs along the path provide insights into the area’s geology, vegetation, and wildlife.
Cedar Point Nature Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.6 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This short trail leads to two overlooks offering expansive views of the Gunnison River and the Painted Wall, the canyon’s tallest cliff face. The trail is dotted with junipers and sagebrush, and interpretive signs highlight the natural history of the area, making it an informative and scenic walk.
Chasm View Nature Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.25 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This short, level trail offers some of the most dramatic views of the Black Canyon, directly across from the Painted Wall. With the Gunnison River roaring 2,250 feet below, Chasm View provides a unique perspective on the depth and narrowness of the canyon, making it a must-see for first-time visitors.
Rim Rock Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This accessible, paved trail offers stunning views of the Black Canyon and the Gunnison River below. Ideal for families and those looking for a leisurely walk, the Rim Rock Trail connects the visitor center to the campground, winding through pinyon and juniper forests with several overlooks providing breathtaking canyon vistas.
Oak Flat Loop Trail
Rating: Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 400 feet (122 meters)
Description: Diverging from the South Rim near the visitor center, the Oak Flat Loop dips below the rim, offering hikers a closer look at the inner canyon’s ecology without the technical challenges of the inner canyon routes. Expect steep sections, diverse vegetation, and unique views of the canyon walls.
Warner Point Nature Trail
Rating: Easy to Moderate
Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 200 feet (61 meters)
Description: Located at the end of the South Rim Road, this trail offers a mix of high desert and canyon views, extending to the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Valley, and the Gunnison River. Interpretive signs along the path provide insights into the area’s geology, vegetation, and wildlife.
Cedar Point Nature Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.6 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This short trail leads to two overlooks offering expansive views of the Gunnison River and the Painted Wall, the canyon’s tallest cliff face. The trail is dotted with junipers and sagebrush, and interpretive signs highlight the natural history of the area, making it an informative and scenic walk.
Chasm View Nature Trail
Rating: Easy
Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.25 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain
Description: This short, level trail offers some of the most dramatic views of the Black Canyon, directly across from the Painted Wall. With the Gunnison River roaring 2,250 feet below, Chasm View provides a unique perspective on the depth and narrowness of the canyon, making it a must-see for first-time visitors.
Sources
- Britannica, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, https://www.britannica.com/place/Black-Canyon-of-the-Gunnison-National-Park, retrieved March 2020.
- Colorado, Explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, https://www.colorado.com/articles/explore-black-canyon-gunnison-national-pa…, retrieved March 2020.
- National Park Service, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm, retrieved March 2020.
- Vandenbusche, Duane, Images of America – The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Arcadia Publishing, March 2020.
- Visit Montrose, Black Canyon National Park, https://www.visitmontrose.com/outdoors/black-canyon-national-park/, retrieved March 2020.