Basic Information

Welcome to Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains in west-central Colorado. It exposes some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. It was established as a national monument on March 2, 1933 and redesignated as a national park on October 21, 1999.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Some roads into the park are limited access or closed entirely in winter. The park is divided by the canyon into a North Rim and South Rim. There is no bridge or road through the park or connecting the rims. Both rim drives have one access point from the highway, and dead-end within the park. Driving from one rim to the other involves driving along non-park roads and can take 2+ hours.

No reservations are required to enter Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

 
A view into a steep canyon with cross fissures in the rock
A view into Black Canyon from Cross Fissures Overlook

NPS/Zach Schierl

 

 

 
A wooden cabin style visitor center with people walking towards it and a flag flying above
Operating Hours & Seasons

Find out seasonal openings and visitor center hours.

People standing at a fenced overlook at the edge of a canyon. Steep, canyon walls are beyond them.
Current Conditions

Know before you go! Check current conditions, as well as any closures, construction, or alerts.

A large park entrance sign with white lettering and a graphic of a canyon
Fees & Passes

Learn about the fees and passes that are available.

A person stands at an overlook with wooden fencing covered in snow
Weather

See the weather forecast and typical climate for the park throughout the seasons.

A dog on a leash looks out over a canyon from an overlook
Visiting with Pets

Know where you and your pet are allowed to go in the park.

A small dam and river in between two canyon walls with fall foliage
Places to Go

Visit one of the canyon rims, drive down to the river level, or challenge yourself to experience the inner canyon.

A hiker sits on a large rock overlooking Black Canyon.
Things to Do

Make the most of your visit by planning your activities and experiences in advance.

Last updated: June 28, 2024

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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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