Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Guide

While hiking the inner canyon can prove to be quite a challenge, it’s a great way to immerse yourself and really learn to appreciate the canyon on a whole different level. There are no marked trails through the canyon, and this strenuous hike is only truly recommended for very experienced hikers. If you’re willing to take it on, you’ll need to get a permit. Be sure to bring a gallon of water and high energy snacks. Also be aware of certain common dangers such as bears and poison ivy.

The spring time is the perfect time of the year to get some really great nature pictures here at Black Canyon. Everything is just beginning to come to life again with vibrant budding trees and colorful blossoms, so now is the time to get out that camera of yours out.

When you visit Black Canyon, you’re almost guaranteed to see some wildlife, no matter what time of the year you come. If you take the time and effort to seek the wildlife out, it can be a really neat learning experience. Learn about the different creatures that live here, and see different species at different times of the year. So wear neutral clothes that blend in with the environment, grab some binoculars, and shhh -- be still and see what you can find.

The shortest trail at South Rim is Cedar Point Nature Trail at ⅔ mile long round trip. The most difficult trail you’ll find in this area is Oak Flat Loop Trail that’s only 2 miles round trip. All of the trails offered have breathtaking views that are totally worth the physical exertion.

There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from at the North and South Rims. Always tread carefully, as many of the trails are close to steep drop-offs and may have some rough terrain. The shortest and easiest trail that you can find at the North Rim is Chasm View Nature Trail, at ⅓ mile long round trip. For a more strenuous route at North Rim, head to Green Mountain by taking North Vista Trail - a trip totaling 7 miles.

The summer is a great time to try to spot and identify the wide variety of birds that call this park their home. You might get to see the Peregrine Falcon - the world’s fastest bird. You can also see the Blue Grouse, different species of eagles and hawks, and even the Canyon Wren on early mornings.

If you’re trying to pick the best time of the year to plan your RV camping trip, think about reserving a spot in the summertime. The kids are out of school, there are lots of people to hangout with, and the weather is just wonderful during this time of the year.

The Gunnison River is designated as Gold Medal Waters and Wild Trout Waters by the state wildlife commission due to the river’s impressive amount of wild trout and great fishing opportunities. This makes the Gunnison River a very popular place to go fishing. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations - real bait is not allowed for use, and all trout catches are catch and release only. Lose yourself in the wonderful wildlife while you fish and relax.

Rock climbing is another activity in the park that is only recommended for experts. Climbing season starts mid-April and goes to early June, then from mid-September to early November. There is not a lot of information available on rock climbing, which means there are plenty of options for creating your own path. The canyon is deep and narrow, and climbing can prove to be extremely challenging. A permit is required to go rock climbing here.

Kayaking the Gunnison River is a fun summer activity, but only for expert kayakers. Kayaking here is known to be highly challenging. People that choose to try it do so at their own risk - even the most experienced kayakers have lost their lives here. Don’t attempt to kayak here unless you know what you’re doing and you’re willing to take the risk. Poison ivy growing along the river’s edge is another concern to take into consideration.

The Gunnison River sure is a powerful one. After all, it is what carved out the Black Canyon that is now here for you to see, explore, and enjoy. But who wouldn’t want to see the source of the canyon itself? The fall is a great time to go exploring the river. Be sure to take precautions and check conditions before heading out.

Bring your horse to the National Park and ride Deadhorse Trail. Don’t let the name fool you though; this trail, totaling 5 miles, is rated easy to moderate. If you’re looking for more places to take your horse and ride, head to Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, just west of the park.

Due to the park being far out from city life, the nights are much darker than most of us are used to. This means that the stars shine brilliantly. In some areas of the park, you can see up to 15,000 stars, as compared to the 500 or so stars that most people can see in more urban places. You can stargaze on your own in the park, or attend a evening talk in the park by local astronomers between the months of May through September. The park even has a huge astronomy festival every June, where you can listen to guest speakers and participate in special activities.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a beautiful place to visit, and driving through it all can be a relaxing experience. Take your time and set aside a few hours to drive on either South Rim or North Rim Road. South Rim offers 12 scenic overlooks that you can stop at - most of these are reached by hiking a small trail to get to them. Some of the best views to stop at during the drive are Gunnison Point, Painted Wall, Chasm View, and Sunset View. North Rim Road offers 6 overlooks and also has some of the best views that you could possibly wish for! If you’d like to follow the Gunnison River, you can take East Portal Road. Be aware that this road has some steep grades and sharp curves, so they don’t allow vehicles longer that 22 feet. Careful driving is highly encouraged on this treacherous road. All of these scenic routes are closed during the winter to make it safe for all drivers.

The winter time is the perfect time for contemplating life and all that it has to offer. This time of the year creates a quiet and calm atmosphere, and you can enjoy it without walking outside of your RV. Curl up with a nice hot drink and let your mind wander as you watch the snow fall outside the window.

There is so much that you can do in the snow that doesn’t even require extra things like snowshoes or skis. Simply get outside and let your imagination wander. Catch snowflakes on your tongue, make snow angels, build a snowman, or start a friendly snowball fight. Take advantage of the winter elements in an incredible setting.

In the winter, you can still experience some of the great trails at Black Canyon -- try going snow trekking. Oak Flat Look and Rim Rock are fantastic trails to start with. The views that you’ll find here are incredible, and you can immerse yourself in a winter wonderland. Be sure to wear enough to stay warm the whole time that you’re out.

During the winter, South Rim Drive is closed off to vehicle transportation, but makes for an excellent trail for cross country skiing. Park at the South Rim Visitor Center and get started skiing the 6 mile trail. Enjoy the great overlooks while you’re out there.

For the serious campers out there, brave the winter by camping out along the closed South Rim Drive, beyond Pulpit Rock Overlook. You can only do this if you have a permit and if you’re willing to risk hypothermia and other dangers of the cold. The wilderness in the winter is a rough world but for the hardy, camping here is a rush.