Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park lies in southwestern Colorado. It covers part of an edifice carved out by the Gunnison River into steep, high-level gorge. A trail along the south rim has excellent views of the striking drop of the canyon and the dramatic striated Painted Wall. The winding East Portal Road intersects the canyon. The park headquarters, observation tower, and several campsites are located nearby. Hikers can view beautiful Black Canyon fireboats and also the Grand Canyon on a clear day.
Accessing the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park via the South Rim Road is by following the yellow blaze path that goes up to the top of the canyon. In the past, this trail has been difficult to follow because of large boulders. However, new safety features make it safe for hiking even without a guide. The north rim visitor center, hotels, and campgrounds offer maps, guides, and other resources pertinent to this region’s wildlife and scenic wonders.
The park is Colorado’s most visited National Parks. More than 25 million visitors go to Colorado each year to see the spectacular scenery and natural wonders. Many come to admire the colorful flora and fauna found within and outside the national parks. Many first-time travelers to Colorado and other southwestern states opt to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison to explore the striking beauty of this hidden gem.
The park’s most popular areas for hiking are Death Zone, the East Portal Road, the North Rim Road, and the Mount Evans Road. Hikers can drive their cars directly to these destinations, but many choose to hike the trails using a bike. Hikers should never enter the park via the East Portal Road or the North Rim Road. Instead, they should begin their journey at the East Portal Road and make their way to the top of the canyon. The easiest way to reach the top of the canyon is via the Chasm View Outpost, which is accessible from the West Rim parking lot.
To get to the top of the canyon, most visitors start their journey at the South Rim Trail, which extends from the rim to just below the parking lot. Another popular hiking trail starts by turning left just past the parking area, and takes hikers along a short distance towards the trail leading to Black Canyon picnic tables. Just past this trail, another trail called the Sunshine Trail will lead hikers to Black Canyon picnic tables. Just past this trail, white-tailed deer can be spotted walking along the forested path. This is the most popular hiking location in the park.
Hiking to Black Canyon of the Gunnison is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not only does it offer an abundance of wildlife and scenery, but there are also plenty of great hiking and camping spots within a few miles of the canyon itself. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is definitely not the highest known canyon in the US, but it’s the oldest one still in operation. For those who want to see the wonders of nature up close, camping is a great option. Most campgrounds are within a few miles of the wilderness and have amenities such as bathrooms, pit toilets, and drinking water.