Deep, Steep, and Narrow

Big enough to be overwhelming, yet still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time. Come see some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. Forces of nature and the Gunnison River sculpted this canyon over two million years. The result is a vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Read More

A log cabin style building with large windows is surrounded by conifer trees and snow
Operating Hours & Seasons

Black Canyon has limited services in spring. South Rim is the only area of the park open year-round.

Snowy scene with tall thin tree trunks and a smooth rock wall in the background
Current Conditions

Current conditions vary as winter turns to spring. Check park alerts for updates.

Patchy snow lies on a dirt path with a wooden entrance sign
Hiking

Trail conditions vary during spring. Be prepared for icy mornings and muddy afternoons.

Brown and white tent next to a picnic table with a cooler and gear. Campsite is in a wooded area.
Camping

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

An angler wearing gaiters and warm clothes casts a line into a grayish blue river.
Inner Canyon Wilderness Use

All inner canyon use, including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and climbing, requires a wilderness permit.

Steep, deep canyon walls with patchy snow on the rim. River is visible between canyon walls.
Geology

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

Small brown bird perched in a bare bush with no vegetation
Animals

Spring provides opportunities for bird and mammal sightings. Bring binoculars and stay a safe distance away.

Steep dark canyon walls and spires are seen through green vegetation.
Wilderness

The park is approximately 51% federally designated wilderness protected in 1976 and 1999.

Foggy scene of a blue reservoir surrounded by dark mesas. Patchy snow visible at the tops of mesas.
One River System, Two Park Experiences

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

Last updated: April 22, 2025

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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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