Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Colorado. This breathtaking park is home to some of the steepest and most dramatic canyon walls in North America, with cliffs that drop over 2,700 feet to the Gunnison River below. Here are 12 things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park that you won’t want to miss.
- Drive the South Rim Road One of the best ways to experience the park is by driving the South Rim Road. This 7-mile scenic drive offers stunning views of the canyon, with several pullouts and overlooks where you can stop to take photos and soak up the scenery.
- Hike the Rim Rock Trail The Rim Rock Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that winds along the canyon rim, offering spectacular views of the Gunnison River and the surrounding landscape. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
- Explore the Visitor Center The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Visitor Center is a great place to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. The center offers a variety of exhibits, as well as ranger-led programs and guided hikes.
- Stargaze Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, which means it’s an ideal location for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the night sky, with millions of stars twinkling overhead.
- Raft the Gunnison River For a thrilling adventure, consider rafting the Gunnison River. The river offers exciting rapids and stunning views of the canyon walls, making it a popular destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts.
- Go Fishing The Gunnison River is also an excellent location for fishing, with several species of trout, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat, found in the waters. Visitors can obtain a fishing permit and try their luck in the river.
- Take a Ranger-led Hike The park offers several ranger-led hikes, which are a great way to learn more about the area’s geology, history, and wildlife. These hikes range in difficulty from easy walks to more challenging treks.
- Visit the North Rim While the South Rim is the more popular side of the park, the North Rim offers equally stunning views and is worth a visit. The North Rim is less developed than the South Rim, with fewer amenities and fewer crowds.
- Drive the East Portal Road The East Portal Road is a scenic drive that leads down to the Gunnison River. The road is steep and winding, but the views of the canyon walls and the river below are well worth the trip.
- Go Camping Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers several campgrounds, including the South Rim Campground, which is open year-round. Camping is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
- Attend a Ranger Program The park offers a variety of ranger programs throughout the year, including campfire talks, guided hikes, and children’s programs. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park’s history, wildlife, and geology.
- Take a Scenic Flight For a truly unique perspective on the park, consider taking a scenic flight over the canyon. Several companies offer flights that provide stunning views of the canyon walls, the river, and the surrounding landscape.
Final Thoughts Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a stunning natural wonder that offers visitors the opportunity to explore some of the most unique landscapes in North America. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a challenging hike, or just a chance to connect with nature, the park has something to offer everyone.