South Rim Ski Trail Etiquette

A park ranger skis the South Rim Ski Trail.

NPS Photo/deAnguera

The South Rim Drive closes to vehicles for the winter season beyond the South Rim Visitor Center. If enough snow collects on the road, it becomes a peaceful paradise groomed specifically for skiers and snowshoers. The South Rim Ski Trail is a marvelous addition to Black Canyon's recreational opportunities, providing a more intimate and immersive backcountry experience for 6 miles (one way) along the canyon rim.

The South Rim Ski Trail is shared by a variety of users, and it is groomed/maintained to provide for maximum visitor safety and enjoyment. Different lanes are designated for different recreation types. Classic cross-country skiers should use the far left lane with parallel tracks. Skate skiers should use the center lane that has been groomed for a firm, smooth snow surface. Snowshoers and hikers should use the far right lane, away from the ski tracks. Check out the graphic at the end of this article for clarification. By staying in the lane designated for your activity, you are helping to preserve trail conditions and promote safety for all users.

During winter, South Rim Drive is closed to vehicles beyond Gunnison Point at the visitor center. The road will be in either "winter road status" or "ski trail status", depending on snow conditions:

Winter Road Status: When the road is in winter road status, there will be no groomed ski trail established by the park. Leashed pets, walking, and bicycles are allowed on the road. Please properly dispose of pet waste at all times.

Ski Trail Status: Rangers may groom the road for cross-country skiing (skate and classic) and snowshoeing, as staffing and conditions allow, at which time the road becomes the South Rim Ski Trail. It is 6 miles (4 km) one-way to the end, and allows access to more overlooks. Parking is available at the South Rim Visitor Center. Equipment rentals are not available in the park. Check the current conditions page for snow and grooming updates. When the road is in ski trail status, pets and bicycles are not allowed.

Please note: Dogs are not permitted on the South Rim Ski Trail, but they are permitted on the Rim Rock Trail. More info: Hiking Trails - Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).

Being considerate of how our tracks impact another trail user's experience is part of being a responsible public land owner. Thank you for your cooperation and stewardship!

For more information about winter activities at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, please see: Winter Activities - Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).

A graphic that demonstrates the 3 user lanes along the South Rim Ski Trail. Left: Cross-country ski lane. Center: Skate ski lane. Right: Snowshoe lane.

NPS