Deep, Steep, and Narrow

Big enough to be overwhelming, still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park exposes you to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. With two million years to work, the Gunnison River, along with the forces of weathering, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky.

People standing at a fenced overlook at the edge of a canyon. Steep, canyon walls are beyond them.
Current Conditions

Know before you go! Check current conditions, as well as any closures, construction, or alerts.

A wooden cabin style visitor center with people walking towards it and a flag flying above
Operating Hours & Seasons

Find out seasonal openings and visitor center hours.

A large park entrance sign with white lettering and a graphic of a canyon
Fees & Passes

Learn about the fees and passes that are available.

A hiker sits on a large rock overlooking Black Canyon.
Things to Do

Make the most of your visit by planning your activities and experiences in advance.

Blue and white tent at a wooded campsite. Gravel path leads to the campsite.
Camping

Decide which campground is right for you - whether you're driving a RV or pitching a tent.

Webcams
Webcams

What's happening at the canyon right now? Check it out.

A lone hiker gazes at the Gunnison River in the Black Canyon Wilderness
Wilderness Use Permits

A permit is required for all inner canyon use including hiking, kayaking, and climbing.

The Milky Way and a night sky full of stars glimmers over the Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Black Canyon Astronomy Festival 2024

Mark your calendars for September 5-7. Astro Fest returns to celebrate dark night skies at three sites along the Gunnison River corridor!

Steep crags dip toward the river, light colored rocks streak the darker canyon wall, snow behind
Geology

The geologic story of Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of uplift, volcanism, and the erosive force of water.

A male bighorn sheep standing on a rocky outcropping
Nature

Learn about the plants and animals that exist from the canyon rim to uplands.

Distant rocky pinnacles rise above a large reservoir with sagebrush in the foreground.
One River System, Two Park Experiences

Visitors to nearby Curecanti National Recreation Area can experience the Gunnison River in a different form.

Last updated: July 10, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

102 Elk Creek
(GPS/physical address = 9800 Highway 347, Montrose, CO)

Gunnison, CO 81230

Phone:

970-641-2337

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