Black Canyon National Park, Colorado

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an awe-inspiring destination within the National Park system. With towering 2000-foot cliffs stretching for 48 miles, unique wildlife, and vast skies, it’s a nature lover’s paradise and a photographer’s dream.

Located just a short half-hour drive from the town of Montrose, Colorado, the park is easily accessible as a day trip. However, it’s worth extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the park’s stunning beauty.

Enjoy the International Dark Sky Designation of the Park

One of the unique features of the Black Canyon is its International Dark Sky designation, making it one of only nine parks in the country with this honor. After watching a stunning sunset, the park’s minimal light pollution provides a perfect opportunity for stargazing and astrophotography.

Explore the Park’s Hiking Trails

While the park can be enjoyed without hiking, exploring the park’s numerous trails allows for a deeper appreciation of its natural beauty. The South Rim Trail offers an easy hike with breathtaking views of the canyon, while the North Vista Trail provides a more challenging but equally rewarding trek. For a unique hiking experience, check out the Warner Point Nature Trail. This trail takes you through a forested area and offers stunning views of the canyon from a different perspective. For the adventurous, the Gunnison Route Trail (not available for tours) descends steeply into the canyon, allowing for a closer look at the Gunnison River. However, proper preparation and equipment are required for this hike.

Encounter the Park’s Unique Wildlife

Black Canyon is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain lions. While spotting these animals can be challenging, they can sometimes be seen while driving through the park or on guided tours.

Don’t Miss the Painted Wall

One of the park’s most iconic attractions is the Painted Wall – a towering cliff face standing at 2,250 feet tall. Its colorful layers of rock make it a stunning sight to behold and a must-see for any visitor to the park.

Plan Your Visit to Black Canyon

If you’re planning a trip to Western Colorado, don’t miss the chance to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Incorporate it into a multi-day tour or take it as a day trip from Montrose, where it can be easily combined with other local attractions in the San Juan Mountains.