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Cross Fissures View: A Glimpse into Black Canyon's Depths

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Canyon's rugged cliffs and unique geological formations at this easily accessible vista point.

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Cross Fissures View, located in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Montrose, Colorado, offers visitors panoramic vistas of the rugged cliffs and deep fissures that characterize the Black Canyon. This easily accessible viewpoint provides a safe and stunning perspective into the heart of the canyon, showcasing its unique geology and dramatic landscape.

A brief summary to Cross Fissures View

  • Montrose, Colorado, 81401, US

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and photo opportunities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the nearby hiking trails.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the canyon.
  • Stay on marked paths as the rocky ledges can be fragile and dangerous.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Montrose, Colorado, head east on US-50. Turn north onto CO-347 and follow it for approximately 15 miles to the South Rim entrance of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Once inside the park, continue along South Rim Road for about 7 miles. Follow the signs for Cross Fissures View, turning left into the designated parking area. The viewpoint is a short walk from the parking area. Park entrance fee is $15 per vehicle.

  • Public Transportation

    While there is no direct public transportation to Cross Fissures View, you can take a shuttle or bus to the South Rim Visitor Center. From there, it is approximately 7 miles to Cross Fissures View along South Rim Road. Check the shuttle schedule in advance as it may vary by season. From the visitor center, you can hike or bike to the viewpoint. Shuttle/bus fare will vary depending on the origin and service.

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Discover more about Cross Fissures View

Cross Fissures View is a remarkable vista point within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, celebrated for its breathtaking views of the canyon's dramatic landscape. Located a short distance from the South Rim Visitor Center, this viewpoint is easily accessible and offers a compelling introduction to the geological wonders of the area. From this vantage point, visitors can observe the deep, jagged fissures that give the site its name. These fissures, or deep crevices, are a result of faulting and expose the ancient Precambrian gneiss rock formations, some of the oldest exposed rock on earth. The canyon walls display striking white bands of pegmatite dikes, formed by igneous intrusions of superheated water containing dissolved minerals. The views extend across a profound fault parallel to the main canyon, revealing Big Island, an isolated rock formation. The western view highlights the expansive walls of a side canyon, marked with prominent white pegmatite streaks. The viewpoint is reached via a short, easy 0.3-mile trail from the parking area, making it suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels. The trail meanders through brush, offering glimpses of the surrounding vegetation and the canyon's edge. Safety barriers are in place at the overlook, allowing visitors to safely take in the awe-inspiring vistas. The site is particularly popular for photography, with the changing light of sunrise and sunset casting enchanting shadows over the landscape.

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