Deep, Steep, and Narrow

Big enough to be overwhelming, yet still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time. Come see some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. Forces of nature and the Gunnison River sculpted this canyon over two million years. The result is a vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Read More

A log cabin style building with informational signs in front.
Basic Information

Learn the essentials when planning a visit to Black Canyon .

Broad view of a deep rocky canyon with cloud shadows and a greenish muddy river far below.
Current Conditions

Current conditions vary as winter turns to spring. Check park alerts for updates.

Adults and children with jackets and backpacks hike along a trail. Wooden trail sign in foreground.
Hiking

Hiking trails range in distance and difficulty. Some have steep drop offs, rocky terrain, and steps.

A blue tent and light green tent are pitched on dirt between juniper and pinyon pine trees.
Camping

Decide which campground is right for you - whether you're driving a RV or pitching a tent.

three hikers scrambling up steep rock ledges, viewed from above
Inner Canyon Use

Learn about the wilderness area of the Inner Canyon. Information on permits, regulations, routes, etc,

Four dark canyon walls with a blue and cloudy sky. The perspective is looking up at the walls.
Geology

The geologic story of Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of uplift, volcanism, and the erosive force of water.

A black bear face with a brown fur looks through green vegetation.
Animals

Animals live in different habitats from canyon rim to river and require specific lifestyles to be successful.

View of a river running through a steep canyon. Vegetation lines the riverbank.
Wilderness

Learn about Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness, a federally designated wilderness area.

Burned and treeless landscape with canyon and blue sky in background
2025 South Rim Fire

Learn about the 2025 South Rim Fire at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Distant rocky pinnacles rise above a large reservoir with sagebrush in the foreground.
One River System, Two Park Experiences

Visitors to nearby Curecanti National Recreation Area can experience the Gunnison River in a different form.

Last updated: March 19, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

102 Elk Creek
(GPS/physical address = 9800 Highway 347, Montrose, CO)
Gunnison, CO 81230

Phone:

970-641-2337

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