Painted Wall: Colorado's Cliffside Masterpiece

Witness Colorado's tallest cliff, the Painted Wall, a stunning geological masterpiece in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

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Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Painted Wall

The Painted Wall, within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, is Colorado's tallest cliff, rising 2,250 feet from the Gunnison River. Its dramatic, colorful bands of pegmatite create a stunning visual display, making it a must-see destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Painted Wall

Colorado, US

Local tips

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the Painted Wall.
Bring binoculars for a closer look at the details of the rock formations.
Combine your visit with other South Rim overlooks for a comprehensive canyon experience.

Getting There

Driving

From Montrose, Colorado, drive east on US-50 and then north on CO-347 to the South Rim entrance of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Once inside the park, follow South Rim Road. The overlook is a short drive from the entrance. Park in the designated roadside parking area. From the parking area, a short 200-yard walk on a well-defined, unpaved trail leads to the overlook. Note that Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has moved to cashless payments at the entrance station. Entrance fees are $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. An annual pass to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is available for $55.
Walking

From the South Rim Visitor Center, drive along the South Rim Road. The Painted Wall Overlook will be on the right-hand side of the road. Park in the designated roadside parking area. From the parking area, a short 200-yard walk on a well-defined, unpaved trail leads to the overlook.

Discover more about Painted Wall

Painted Wall, located in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, is a geological wonder and Colorado's highest cliff. Rising an impressive 2,250 feet (685 meters) from the Gunnison River, it's one of the most awe-inspiring cliffs in North America. The "painted" effect comes from the light-colored bands of pegmatite that streak across the dark metamorphic rock. These bands were formed around 1.7 billion years ago when molten rock seeped into fractures in the surrounding rock. Over millions of years, the Gunnison River carved through the ancient Precambrian rock, exposing this stunning geological artwork. The Black Canyon got its name because its steep, deep nature means that sunlight hits only certain areas of the canyon walls for a limited time each day. Visitors can easily access the Painted Wall Overlook via a short, 200-yard walk from the parking area on South Rim Road. The overlook provides a safe viewing platform with a fence, though more adventurous visitors can find less obstructed views to the left or right. The Painted Wall is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, when the changing light enhances the colors and shadows on the cliff face.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Chasm View

1.2 km

Discover breathtaking views at Chasm View, a stunning vista point near Montrose, Colorado, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Montrose Garage Doors

14.7 km

Explore Montrose Garage Doors for quality garage door solutions in Montrose, Colorado, where expertise meets exceptional customer service.

Honk-Key Lock & Safe LLC

15.0 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

15.1 km

Discover comfort and convenience at Stay Wise Inn Montrose, your gateway to Colorado's stunning landscapes and local attractions.

Ted Nelson's Steakhouse

15.4 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

15.5 km

Discover comfort and convenience at SureStay Plus By Best Western Montrose, your ideal base for exploring Colorado's scenic wonders.

Red Arrow Boutique Hotel - Montrose Colorado

15.6 km

Discover the Red Arrow Boutique Hotel, where comfort meets local charm in Montrose, Colorado, a gateway to Colorado's breathtaking landscapes.

Red Arrow Boutique Hotel - Montrose Colorado

Buckaroos Slices & Scoops

15.8 km

Discover the perfect slice of pizza and a scoop of joy at Buckaroos Slices & Scoops in Montrose, Colorado; a culinary gem for pizza lovers.

Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA Journey

15.9 km

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Montrose/Black Canyon National Park KOA Journey, your gateway to Colorado's breathtaking landscapes.

Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA Journey

Minecart Motor Lodge

16.1 km

Discover the comfort and convenience of Minecart Motor Lodge in Montrose, Colorado, your gateway to stunning natural landscapes and local attractions.

Light House Eatery

16.3 km

Discover the best breakfast and lunch at Light House Eatery in Montrose, Colorado. Enjoy fresh, local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.

Montrose County Fairgrounds

16.4 km

Discover the heart of community life at Montrose County Fairgrounds, where local culture, fun events, and family-friendly activities await.

Friendship Hall

16.4 km

Explore Friendship Hall in Montrose, Colorado, a premier conference center for events that foster community connection and collaboration.

Ay Chabela Snacks

16.4 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.

Phelanies

16.5 km

Experience handcrafted cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere at Phelanies, the go-to cocktail bar in Montrose, Colorado.

Unmissable attractions to see

Painted Wall View

0.9 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.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

1.3 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.

Chasm View Nature Trail

1.7 km

Easy North Rim trail with stunning views of the Black Canyon's depths, the Gunnison River, and the Painted Wall.

Warner Point Nature Trail

2.4 km

Discover panoramic canyon views and explore the unique ecosystem of Black Canyon of the Gunnison on the easy Warner Point Nature Trail.

Cross Fissures View

2.5 km

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

Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

2.5 km

Explore the depths of the Black Canyon, a vertical wilderness sculpted by the Gunnison River, offering challenging adventures and stunning vistas.

Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail

3.0 km

Explore the breathtaking Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail in Colorado, where stunning views and natural beauty await every adventurer.

Gunnison Point

4.6 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

4.6 km

Begin your Black Canyon adventure at the South Rim Visitor Center, offering information, exhibits, and access to stunning views.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison

4.6 km

Discover the dramatic depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a unique wilderness of steep cliffs and ancient rock.

Kneeling Camel View

4.9 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views and unique rock formations at Kneeling Camel View, a must-see vista point in Montrose, Colorado.

Tomichi Point

5.0 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

5.3 km

Welcome to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Awe-inspiring views, challenging climbs, and dark skies await in this Colorado gem.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Sign

Museum of the Mountain West

12.7 km

Experience the Old West at the Museum of the Mountain West in Montrose, CO: Explore historic buildings & artifacts in a recreated pioneer town.

Gunnison Black Canyon Recreational Area

13.4 km

Explore Colorado's Black Canyon: Awe-inspiring views, hiking, and dark skies await at this geologic wonder near Montrose.

Essential places to dine

El Buen Sabor

15.4 km

Discover authentic Mexican flavors at El Buen Sabor in Montrose - where every dish tells a story.

Mi Mexico

15.5 km

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Mi Mexico in Montrose - where every dish tells a story.

Rusty Putter Bar and Grill

15.7 km

Discover the flavors of Montrose at Rusty Putter Bar and Grill—where classic American cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.

Jimmers BBQ, Burgers, & Beers

15.9 km

Experience mouthwatering barbecue and delicious burgers at Jimmers BBQ in Montrose - your go-to spot for hearty American cuisine.

Layered

16.0 km

Discover innovative cuisine and local flavors at Layered in Montrose, Colorado - where every dish tells a story.

Tacos 2 day

16.1 km

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Tacos 2 Day in Montrose - where every taco tells a delicious story.

Tacos El Gordo Montrose

16.4 km

Discover the authentic taste of Mexico at Tacos El Gordo Montrose – where every taco tells a delicious story!

Lobby Grille

16.5 km

Discover delightful dining at Lobby Grille in Montrose - where local flavors meet friendly service in a cozy bistro setting.

Montrose Memorial Hospital Lobby Grille

16.6 km

Experience comforting meals at Montrose Memorial Hospital Lobby Grille—where health meets hospitality in beautiful Colorado.

Forage at San Juan

17.0 km

Discover Forage at San Juan in Montrose - where local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry in a cozy setting.

Baan Thai Montrose Food Truck

17.0 km

Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Baan Thai Montrose Food Truck, where flavorful dishes meet casual outdoor dining in beautiful Colorado.

Guru's Restaurant

17.0 km

Discover the rich flavors of India at Guru's Restaurant in Montrose – where every meal is a culinary adventure.

Ray’s Corner Cafe

17.2 km

Discover delicious meals and warm hospitality at Ray's Corner Cafe in Montrose - your perfect spot for breakfast or lunch!

MIMO'S 2

17.2 km

Discover MIMO'S 2 in Montrose: A delightful restaurant serving fresh local cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Chang's Thai Viet & Japanese

17.3 km

Experience the best of Southeast Asian cuisine at Chang's Thai Viet & Japanese in Montrose – where flavors come alive!

Explore Ella Antiques in Montrose, Colorado - a unique shopping destination filled with vintage treasures and collectibles that tell a story.

Discover the flavors of Colorado at Ouray Brewery, where craft beer meets a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Rockies.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Painted Wall with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Painted Wall: Colorado's Cliffside Masterpiece

A brief summary to Painted Wall

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Walking

Unlock the Best of Painted Wall

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Painted Wall

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Chasm View

Montrose Garage Doors

Honk-Key Lock & Safe LLC

Stay Wise Inn Montrose

Ted Nelson's Steakhouse

SureStay Plus By Best Western Montrose

Red Arrow Boutique Hotel - Montrose Colorado

Buckaroos Slices & Scoops

Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA Journey

Minecart Motor Lodge

Light House Eatery

Montrose County Fairgrounds

Friendship Hall

Ay Chabela Snacks

Phelanies

Unmissable attractions to see

Painted Wall View

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Chasm View Nature Trail

Warner Point Nature Trail

Cross Fissures View

Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail

Gunnison Point

South Rim Visitor Center

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison

Kneeling Camel View

Tomichi Point

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Sign

Museum of the Mountain West

Gunnison Black Canyon Recreational Area

Essential places to dine

El Buen Sabor

Mi Mexico

Rusty Putter Bar and Grill

Jimmers BBQ, Burgers, & Beers

Layered

Tacos 2 day

Tacos El Gordo Montrose

Lobby Grille

Montrose Memorial Hospital Lobby Grille

Forage at San Juan

Baan Thai Montrose Food Truck

Guru's Restaurant

Ray’s Corner Cafe

MIMO'S 2

Chang's Thai Viet & Japanese

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Black Canyon Corner Store

Bad Princess

Classy Closet LLC

Straw Hat Farm Market & Kitchen Store

Cannonball Candy and Soda Shop

Threads N' Things

Dripping Industries

Heirlooms For Hospice

Wilde Merrion Boutique

The Lucky Horseshoe

Wild Country Keepsakes & Photography

SheShe Boutique

Country Flair Antique Emporium

Art from the Hartt

Ella antiques

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Rose Bowl

Sidelines Sports Bar Inc

Parlor Coffee + Cocktails

Niko's Tavern