Gunnison Gorge Wilderness, Western Slope Travel Guide

The Gunnison Gorge Wilderness, a 17,784-acre expanse in western Colorado, promises a rugged and remote escape into nature. Located within the heart of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA), the wilderness encompasses a dramatic double canyon carved by the Gunnison River. Here, black granite cliffs layered with red sandstone create a stunning visual contrast, showcasing a geological history spanning nearly two billion years.The Gunnison River is central to the wilderness, offering both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The river is renowned for its Gold Medal trout fishing and challenging whitewater boating. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular, with 17 miles of trails to explore. The most used trail is the Chukar Trail, which provides access to the river for boaters. Other trails include the Bobcat, Ute, Smith Fork, and Duncan Trails.The wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, elk, mountain lion, and various bird species. Sensitive species such as the wintering bald eagles and river otters also inhabit the area.Established in 1999, the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to preserve its wilderness character and protect its natural resources. Visitors must adhere to specific regulations, including obtaining permits, packing out all trash, and using stoves or fire pans instead of wood fires. Access roads to trailheads are often rough and require four-wheel-drive vehicles.