Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

A dark, steep slice of rock that photographs like a secret.

The Gunnison cut a canyon so narrow the walls stay in shadow. South Rim drives and overlooks do most of the work; the inner canyon is a permit and a serious descent Colorado.

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Location

38.58° N, 107.74° WOpen in OpenStreetMap

Must-see spots

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Best time to visit

April–October

Trip planner

A Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park itinerary

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Field guide

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a U.S. National Park in Colorado. A dark, steep slice of rock that photographs like a secret.

When to go

April–October is the window most visitors aim for. Shoulder seasons mean fewer cars at trailheads. Winter can close roads; summer can fill parking lots by 8 a.m. Check NPS alerts the night before you drive in.

How to see it

Start with south Rim Drive with every overlook. Then warner Point at the end of the road. If you have a second day, painted Wall from the right pullout. Keep one spare hour for east Portal only if you respect the grade.

Park practicalities

An America the Beautiful pass covers entry at most national parks. Timed-entry reservations are used at several busy parks in peak season — book those before lodging. Wildlife has the right of way; 25 yards from most animals, 100 yards from bears and wolves.

Pack this in your notes

Guardrails are not everywhere. Keep kids and phones away from the edge.
Download offline maps. Cell service drops in most parks.
Bring layers. Elevation and wind change the day faster than the forecast.
Enter the park early. Famous lots and shuttles fill first.

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Traveler reviews

Rate and review

Camila R.

8/10

Start early in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Painted Wall from the right pullout. East Portal only if you respect the grade. Give Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park days, not hours, and go in April–October. The trailhead line is the tax; the quiet after it is the park.

Nov 6, 2025

Elena V.

6/10

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is bigger than the postcard

Warner Point at the end of the road. A dark, steep slice of rock that photographs like a secret. Crowds thin if you are moving at first light. April–October is the window I would book again.

Oct 5, 2025

Amelia K.

10/10

Start early in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

South Rim Drive with every overlook. Warner Point at the end of the road. Give Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park days, not hours, and go in April–October. The trailhead line is the tax; the quiet after it is the park.

Sep 4, 2025