Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the mini Grand Canyon

Published on July 22, 2024 at 4:00 pm

In a way, the Gunnison's Black Canyon is a smaller version of the Grand Canyon. You have to admit that the name gives you the shivers... The Black Canyon, located in western Colorado, is a deep, narrow gorge with smooth, dark walls. In the centre, the Gunnison River slips between the cliffs. Although not one of the best-known national parks in the country, or even the state, it is considered a remote and breathtaking destination for the truly adventurous. Instead, the site caters for the most seasoned sportsmen and women. Experienced climbers descend to the bottom, where the raging river is only for expert kayakers. The canyon is worth a visit for its spectacular panoramas on both banks. Standing at the very top of the cliffs and looking down into this long, jagged canyon is well worth the effort. The Black Canyon invites adventure.

View of Black Canyon from the Gunnison in Colorado.

Summary

A look back in history
What can you see and do in the Black Canyon?
Practical information

Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park is nestled in western Colorado in the United States. This rugged canyon attracts expert climbers and kayakers to test their limits. A scenic drive along the rim highlights the beauty of the area, while steep trails lead down to the river.

Black Canyon in autumn

A look back in history

The Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park was explored by the Ute Native American tribe long before it was exploited by European settlers. The area was described as rough, rugged and dangerous by those who tried to explore the canyon. It wasn't until 1993 that the Black Canyon was designated a national monument, and later a national park in 1999.

The sunset reveals the canyon like a painting.

The rugged canyon was formed over some 60 million years. Just 2 million years ago, the Gunnison River began to flow and was eventually eroded to create the canyon we know today. Although some sections of the canyon are relatively wide, much of it is characterised by its narrow walls.

What can you see and do in the Black Canyon?

The biggest attraction of Gunnison National Park's Black Canyon is the scenic drive along the upper rim to Colorado Highway 50 and Highway 92. Travellers can enjoy the best views from the comfort of their car. Along the way there are also numerous viewpoints of the impressive canyon. The views from Gunnison Point attract thousands of tourists every year. The East Portal Road provides access by car to the canyon floor along a steep and winding road.

The steep trails that lead from the rim to the bottom of the canyon are not for beginners. One of the most popular trails in the park is the Gunnison Route Trail. This trail is an out-and-back that descends steeply to the canyon, but is not one of the most technical routes.

A black bear in Gunnison's black canyon

Climbing routes can be found throughout much of the Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park. The steep walls offer routes for even the most expert climbers. There are around 145 climbing routes in the park, 90% of which are trad climbs. The canyon has a reputation for loose rock, which makes for dangerous climbs and a higher risk of falling. Popular climbs include Maiden Voyage, Scenic Cruise, Comic Relief and Escape Artists.

Le Black Canyon of The Gunnison National Park

Although rafting is not possible in Gunnison National Park's Black Canyon, expert kayakers can discover the beauty of the canyon from below. Rapids are rated for entering the water in the canyon. Strong currents can often make rescue impossible.

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The River Gunnison is perfect for fishing. Big trout are caught. The best fishing starts a few hundred metres downstream of the Crystal dam. Anglers are limited to a few fish so as not to disturb the natural wildlife.

Why is it called the Black Canyon? In some places, the canyon is so narrow that there are sections that only get 33 minutes of sunlight a day.

Les murs du canyon et les falaises

Practical information

👛 Park entrance fee:

$30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days The South Rim of the Gunnison Black Canyon is open 365 days a year. South Rim Road is generally open from early April to mid-November. The rest of the year it is closed to vehicles, but you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. North Rim is closed to vehicles in winter.

👉 When is the best time to visit the canyon?

The best time to visit the South Rim is from April until early November. During the summer months, temperatures are warmer. South Rim Road is closed to cars around mid-November, once the snow starts to fall. However, it remains open for cross-country skiing. North Rim is closed during the winter months, from late November to mid-April.

👉 What to do nearby?

Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park is five hours from the city of Denver. Although no major cities surround the area. To the south-east is the town of Gunnison with a population of around 6,500. To the north-west of the park is the small town of Delta, offering local shops, restaurants and accommodation.

by Editorial Team

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The American canyons