NPS photo Related PagesEast Portal is within the boundary of Curecanti National Recreation Area, but only accessible from the South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Getting HereEast Portal is accessible from the South Rim, which is 7 miles north on CO Highway 347 from the intersection with U.S. Highway 50 east of Montrose. Turn right onto the East Portal road at the park entrance station. RoadsThe East Portal Road is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. The road is paved and two-way, but windy and steep. Vehicles over 22 feet are prohibited on the East Portal Road. In a few places, the road is a 16% grade; vehicles should be in low gear on the road to avoid burning out the brakes. The road is closed in winter, typically from November to April. WaterIn the summer months, a water fill-up station is available in the campground. We ask that you use the fill-up stations conservatively and be prepared with your own water. In the spring and fall, water is not available. East PortalThis map shows East Portal. This area is part of Curecanti National Recreation Area but is only accessible from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. East Portal Road, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, is highlighted in orange. Points of interest, such as the campground, overlooks, restrooms, picnic areas, Gunnison Diversion Dam, and parking lots, are marked with black icons and corresponding white symbols. The map shows the park and recreation area boundaries in a shaded light green bordered by a darker green line. The Gunnison River displays as a light blue shaded area. Each data point is clickable; when selected, it displays the facility name and relevant information. Information & ExhibitsInterpretive wayside exhibits tell the story of the men and women who lived at East Portal and the workers who constructed the Gunnison Tunnel. In the summer, rangers may also give guided walks. Check with the visitor center for updated program schedules. Inner Canyon UseExploring the inner canyon from East Portal requires skill and experience, but is less strenuous starting from the river level. The inner canyon is a designated wilderness area and requires a permit to enter. Hikers and kayakers can obtain a permit from the self-registration kiosk outside the ranger station. CampingClosed
 The East Portal Campground is located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, but is adjacent to and only accessible from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, where the entrance fee is $30. The campground is located at the bottom of the canyon, along the Gunnison River. It is a small campground shaded by box elder trees. East Portal Road is closed to vehicles but open to pedestrians and cyclists in winter. The Bureau of Reclamation determines when the East Portal Road closes. Elevation: 6526 feet
TOTAL SITES: 15 Electric Hookups: 0 RV Only: 0 Tent Only: 10 Walk to/Boat to: 10 Group: 0 Horse: 0 Other: 0 |
Last updated: October 23, 2024