Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness: A Vertical Wilderness
Explore the depths of the Black Canyon, a vertical wilderness sculpted by the Gunnison River, offering challenging adventures and stunning vistas.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness protects a dramatic section of the Black Canyon, the deepest narrow canyon in America. Carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years, the wilderness offers stunning views, challenging hikes, and a chance to experience the raw power of nature.
A brief summary to Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness
- Crawford, Colorado, 81415, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Obtain a wilderness permit if you plan to hike into the inner canyon. Reservations are required for South Rim routes between May 1 and October 31.
- Be prepared for challenging conditions if hiking into the canyon. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and be aware of the risks of heat exhaustion and rockfall.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for changing conditions. The canyon can experience extreme temperature swings.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and stargazing. The park is home to a variety of animals and offers exceptional night sky viewing.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the wilderness. Pack out all trash, stay on designated routes, and avoid disturbing vegetation or wildlife.
Getting There
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Driving
The most common way to access the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness is by car. The South Rim entrance is located 7 miles north of the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 and CO Highway 347, east of Montrose. From Montrose, follow US-50 East and turn onto CO-347 North. The North Rim entrance is located 11 miles southwest of Crawford, Colorado. From CO Highway 92, turn west onto Black Canyon Road. Note that the North Rim entrance is closed in winter. Entrance fees are $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. An annual pass to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is available for $55. Note that Black Canyon's operations are cashless.
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Camping
Camping is available on both the South and North Rims, as well as at the bottom of the canyon at East Portal Campground. The South Rim Campground is located one mile from the South Rim Visitor Center, and reservations are required. The North Rim Campground is first-come, first-served. East Portal Campground is located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, but is accessed through the park. Camping fees vary by campground. Reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Discover more about Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chasm View
3.7 km
Discover breathtaking views at Chasm View, a stunning vista point near Montrose, Colorado, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Montrose Garage Doors
13.4 km
Explore Montrose Garage Doors for quality garage door solutions in Montrose, Colorado, where expertise meets exceptional customer service.
Honk-Key Lock & Safe LLC
13.6 km
Discover exceptional locksmith services and top-notch safes at Honk-Key Lock & Safe LLC in Montrose, ensuring your peace of mind during your travels.
Stay Wise Inn Montrose
13.7 km
Discover comfort and convenience at Stay Wise Inn Montrose, your gateway to Colorado's stunning landscapes and local attractions.
Ted Nelson's Steakhouse
14.0 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and a warm ambiance at Ted Nelson's Steakhouse, Montrose's top destination for steak lovers seeking culinary delight.
SureStay Plus By Best Western Montrose
14.1 km
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Red Arrow Boutique Hotel - Montrose Colorado
14.1 km
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Buckaroos Slices & Scoops
14.3 km
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Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA Journey
14.4 km
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Minecart Motor Lodge
14.7 km
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Light House Eatery
14.9 km
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Montrose County Fairgrounds
14.9 km
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Friendship Hall
14.9 km
Explore Friendship Hall in Montrose, Colorado, a premier conference center for events that foster community connection and collaboration.
Ay Chabela Snacks
14.9 km
Savor the delicious flavors of Ay Chabela Snacks, a fast food gem in Montrose, Colorado, perfect for a quick and tasty meal on your travels.
Cimarron Song Gallery
15.0 km
Explore Cimarron Song Gallery in Montrose, where stunning local artworks celebrate the natural beauty and artistic spirit of Colorado.
Unmissable attractions to see
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a true natural wonder in Colorado showcasing steep cliffs and rich wildlife.
Painted Wall
2.5 km
Witness Colorado's tallest cliff, the Painted Wall, a stunning geological masterpiece in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Warner Point Nature Trail
2.8 km
Discover panoramic canyon views and explore the unique ecosystem of Black Canyon of the Gunnison on the easy Warner Point Nature Trail.
Painted Wall View
3.4 km
Witness Colorado's tallest cliff at Painted Wall View in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park; a stunning display of nature's artistry.
Chasm View Nature Trail
4.2 km
Easy North Rim trail with stunning views of the Black Canyon's depths, the Gunnison River, and the Painted Wall.
Cross Fissures View
4.9 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Canyon's rugged cliffs and unique geological formations at this easily accessible vista point.
Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail
5.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail in Colorado, where stunning views and natural beauty await every adventurer.
Gunnison Point
6.9 km
Easily accessible overlooks offering breathtaking views into the depths of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Montrose, Colorado.
South Rim Visitor Center
6.9 km
Your first stop for exploring the depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Maps, exhibits, and expert advice await!
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison
6.9 km
Discover the depths of the Black Canyon: panoramic views, hiking, and dark skies await at the South Rim Visitor Center.
Tomichi Point
7.2 km
First stop on the South Rim, Tomichi Point delivers panoramic views of the Black Canyon's immense depth and dramatic geological formations.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Sign
7.2 km
Discover the dramatic depths and stunning vistas of the Black Canyon, a testament to nature's power and geological history.
Kneeling Camel View
7.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views and unique rock formations at Kneeling Camel View, a must-see vista point in Montrose, Colorado.
Gunnison Black Canyon Recreational Area
11.6 km
Explore Colorado's Black Canyon: Awe-inspiring views, hiking, and dark skies await at this geologic wonder near Montrose.
Gunnison Gorge Wilderness
11.7 km
Explore Colorado's Gunnison Gorge Wilderness: A haven for hiking, fishing, and whitewater adventures in a stunning canyon landscape.
Essential places to dine
El Buen Sabor
14.0 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at El Buen Sabor in Montrose - where every dish tells a story.
Mi Mexico
14.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Mi Mexico in Montrose - where every dish tells a story.
Jimmers BBQ, Burgers, & Beers
14.4 km
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Rusty Putter Bar and Grill
14.5 km
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Tacos 2 day
14.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Tacos 2 Day in Montrose - where every taco tells a delicious story.
Tacos El Gordo Montrose
14.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of Mexico at Tacos El Gordo Montrose – where every taco tells a delicious story!
Layered
15.0 km
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Lobby Grille
15.1 km
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Montrose Memorial Hospital Lobby Grille
15.2 km
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Forage at San Juan
15.5 km
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Shelter Distilling
15.5 km
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Horsefly Restaurant
15.5 km
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Baan Thai Montrose Food Truck
15.6 km
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Guru's Restaurant
15.6 km
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A&W Restaurant
15.6 km
Experience the nostalgia of classic American fast food at A&W Restaurant in Montrose, Colorado - home of delicious hamburgers and famous root beer.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Black Canyon Corner Store
10.8 km
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Bad Princess
14.9 km
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Classy Closet LLC
14.9 km
Explore the charm of sustainable fashion at Classy Closet LLC, a consignment shop in Montrose offering unique clothing and accessories.
Straw Hat Farm Market & Kitchen Store
15.5 km
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Threads N' Things
15.6 km
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Cannonball Candy and Soda Shop
15.6 km
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Heirlooms For Hospice
15.6 km
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Dripping Industries
15.6 km
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Wilde Merrion Boutique
15.6 km
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Art from the Hartt
15.7 km
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Country Flair Antique Emporium
15.7 km
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SheShe Boutique
15.7 km
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Second Impressions
15.7 km
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MAUVE
15.7 km
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Curiouser Books Montrose
15.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rose Bowl
14.0 km
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Sidelines Sports Bar Inc
15.6 km
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Parlor Coffee + Cocktails
15.7 km
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Montrose Kratom Bar
15.8 km
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Niko's Tavern
15.8 km
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Delta Elks Lodge #1235
32.3 km
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Pour Ernies
32.3 km
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fuel. coffee stand
32.3 km
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The Gray Tavern
62.5 km
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Ourayle House Brewery
62.8 km
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Kami's Samis
62.8 km
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Taste Ouray
62.8 km
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Silver Eagle Saloon
62.9 km
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Outlaw Restaurant
62.9 km
Experience the best of Colorado dining at Outlaw Restaurant, where sumptuous steaks and vibrant American cuisine meet breathtaking mountain views.
Ouray Brewery
62.9 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Ouray Brewery, where craft beer meets a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Rockies.
