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Painted Wall View: Colorado's Cliffside Masterpiece

Witness Colorado's tallest cliff at Painted Wall View in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park; a stunning display of nature's artistry.

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The Painted Wall View offers an easily accessible vista of Colorado's tallest sheer cliff within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The overlook provides stunning views of the Gunnison River and the vibrantly colored, striated rock face that plummets 2,250 feet.

A brief summary to Painted Wall View

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the Painted Wall.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the overlook has little shade and the altitude is high.
  • Take your time at the overlook to appreciate the scale of the canyon and the details of the Painted Wall.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the South Rim Visitor Center, drive along South Rim Road for approximately 5 miles. The Painted Wall overlook is well-signed. Park in the designated lot on the north side of the road. From the parking area, it is a short, 200-yard walk along a well-defined, unpaved path to the overlook. Note: There is a $30 entrance fee per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Alternatively, an annual park pass can be purchased for $55.

  • Walking

    From the Painted Wall parking area, a sign on the north side of the road indicates the direction to the overlook. Follow the unpaved trail for approximately 200 yards. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors. The overlook has safety fencing.

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Discover more about Painted Wall View

Painted Wall View provides visitors with an unforgettable perspective of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison's most famous geological feature. The Painted Wall is Colorado's tallest sheer cliff, dropping a staggering 2,250 feet from rim to river. What makes this cliff so remarkable are the light-colored bands of pegmatite that streak across the dark rock face, creating a visually striking pattern that gives the wall its name. These bands were formed nearly 1.7 billion years ago as molten rock seeped into fissures and solidified, leaving behind mineral deposits. From the overlook, visitors can gaze upon the Gunnison River carving its way through the depths of the canyon. The sheer scale of the canyon is awe-inspiring, showcasing the power of the Gunnison River over millions of years. The South Rim, where the Painted Wall View is located, offers more accessible and developed viewpoints compared to the North Rim, making it a popular choice for park visitors. The Painted Wall is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, when the changing light accentuates the colors and textures of the rock. The short, easy walk from the parking area to the overlook makes this view accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities.

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