3 Days In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park (North & South Rim Itinerary!)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the deepest, steepest, and most narrow canyons in the United States. It’s so narrow in fact, parts of the canyon floor only see a few minutes of sunlight per day, which is the inspiration for the canyon’s name.

Despite the outstanding natural beauty found here, this is one of the least visited national parks in the US. This is largely due to its remote location. However, those who have been know it’s worth the effort.

An extended visit allows you to see a majority of the park’s north and south rims which are separated by a 2-hour each way drive (about 80 miles).

This is an easy 3-day itinerary that covers most of the park and allows you to visit the north and south rim.

3 Days In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Day 1: Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park – South Rim

During day 1 of this itinerary we’ll stick to Black Canyon’s South Rim. This is the most commonly visited side of the park, located just 20 minutes from the area’s largest city, Montrose.

Visitor Center & Gunnison Point Overlook 

The first stop of the day is the visitor center and Gunnison Point Overlook.

The visitor center is fairly large and houses some great exhibits explaining the geology of the park, wildlife found here, and more. There’s also a decently large bookshop and gift area, restrooms, and of course, park rangers are always on hand to answer questions and help plan your visit.

Gunnison Point Overlook is accessible from the visitor center, you’ll definitely want to check it out, it’s one of the park’s best overlooks. From the viewing platform you’ll have excellent views of the canyon’s vertical, jagged rocks and your first glimpse at the Gunnison River flowing below.

Oak Flat Loop Trail

If you’re up for a hike, you’ll find a few trailheads at the visitor center.

Oak Flat Loop Trail is a good hike to consider. The short trail provides more views of the canyon’s sheer cliffs and the Gunnison River far below. While it doesn’t take hikers to the bottom of the canyon, the trail drops enough below the rim to provide a different perspective of Black Canyon’s depth and steep rock walls.

This 1.4 mile trail has a moderately difficult rating thanks to sections which are steep and rocky. Follow the trail clockwise for a gradual downward descent and steep ascent.

Tip: Rim Rock Trail is about the same distance and also starts at the visitor center, if you’re looking for an easier hike, this is a better option.

For more hikes, check out these Top Hikes In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park. Most trails in this park are short, ambitious hikers can knock out a majority of these across 3 days in the park.

Stop By The South Rim Overlooks

Next, hit South Rim Road to see more overlooks.

Below are some of the best overlooks, starting with ones closest to the visitor center and ending with those at the end of South Rim Road. I recommend stopping at each one listed below, there are even more if you have the time.

Pulpit Rock Overlook – This overlook allows you to better see the Gunnison River flowing through the canyon. There’s a short walk to this viewpoint.

Cross Fissures Overlook – Cross Fissures has a good vantage point for some of the canyon’s interesting and intricate rock formations. The rock formations here are different from many others in the park, I really liked this stop. There’s a short walk to this viewpoint.

Painted Wall Overlook – This overlook is a must-see, it’s where you can witness the staggering 2,250 foot tall Painted Wall. Not only is this the tallest cliff in Colorado, but it’s also really beautiful thanks to miles of lightly colored rock bands cutting through the dark rock. There’s a short walk to this viewpoint.

Cedar Point Overlook – A .4 mile trail takes you to Cedar Point Overlook, where you’ll find excellent views of the Gunnison River framed by the Painted Wall. While the previous overlook has the best vantage of Painted Wall, this overlook has a better view of the Gunnison River and Painted Wall together.

Warner Point Trail

If you’re up for one more hike, consider Warner Point Trail located at the end of South Rim Road.

The 1.5 mile hike is short but has a 423 foot elevation change, resulting in a few steep sections and a moderate rating.

It’s a popular trail, providing a view into a wider portion of the canyon, which allows hikers to really take in the jagged rocks towering up above the Gunnison River. Sweeping views of Montrose, Delta, and the Grand Mesa are also visible in the distance.

Along the trail are nature signs with information about the park’s plants and geology, plus occasional benches in shaded areas.

Be aware, parking here does fill up around midday in summer.

Optional: Join A Ranger Program

As with all national parks, Black Canyon of the Gunnison has some excellent ranger programs.

Programs are held throughout summer and cover topics such as the park’s unique geology, ecology, park history, and night skies.

Check the South Rim Visitor Center or Black Canyon of the Gunnison Ranger Programs for events during your visit. This will be a nice addition to your itinerary and a fun way to learn more about the park.

Day 2: Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park – Canyon Floor

During the second day in Black Canyon of the Gunnison, we’ll venture to the canyon floor. This can be achieved by hiking (permit required) or driving (no permit required).

If you’re new to hiking or have any mobility issues, it’s better to drive. Advanced hikers up for an adventure, I definitely recommend hiking.

Either way, you’ll start your day on the south rim again.

Option 1: Hike Into The Canyon – Gunnison Route

1.7 miles | 1,771 foot elevation gain | rated hard (class 3-4 scramble) | south rim

While there are no official trails to the canyon floor, there are a few wilderness routes accessible to those with a permit. Gunnison Route is the most popular by a long shot.

The route is only about 2 miles, but covers nearly 1,800 feet of elevation change in that very short distance. Ascending and descending the steep and loose terrain is for advanced hikers only. 

This route does have chains to help with the climb, it’s recommended to bring gloves for these, and bring hiking poles for the sections without chains.

Once at the bottom, hikers can access the river and will have excellent views of the surrounding canyon walls.

Again, permits are required. There are only 15 permits granted per day which can be obtained at the visitor center the afternoon before or morning of. I recommend snagging a permit the afternoon before, they’re often gone by morning.

For most, this hike only requires a half day (unless you plan to spend significant time at the base of the canyon). In the afternoon you’ll likely want to rest since this is taxing hike.

Option 2: East Portal Road Into the Canyon

The hike to the floor of Black Canyon definitely isn’t for everyone, those not able to do the hike, drive to the bottom of the canyon via East Portal Road instead.

East Portal Road is the only road to the base of the canyon and it begins near the South Rim entrance, just before South Rim Road officially begins.

The paved 5-mile road is very steep and winding, with a 16% grade in sections. It’s worth the effort though, once in the canyon, visitors can see the Gunnison River, Gunnison Diversion Dam, Crystal Dam, go fishing, picnic, or hike Primitive Trail.

Note: Vehicles over 22 feet are not prohibited on East Portal Road.

Most only need about a half day to do this. If you didn’t join a ranger program yesterday, I recommend doing that during the afternoon today, or check out these additional Things To Do In Black Canyon of the Gunnison – South Rim.

Watch The Sunset

If you’re up for it, I recommend catching a sunset on day 2, the park is spectacular this time of day.

It’s a treat to watch the setting sun cast oranges, reds, and purples on the towering canyon walls, it really provides a different experience from daytime views.

Sunset View Overlook is unsurprisingly one of the most popular spots to watch the show from the south rim. However, Painted Wall and Cedar Point are great spots as well.

Tip: sunrise is also excellent here, if that fits better into your schedule.

Stargazing

After sunset, stick around after sunset for some stargazing.

Black Canyon is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning it’s one of the darkest night skies you can find in the United States. 

The extremely remote location, with very little light pollution, is excellent for stargazing and viewing the Milky Way. 

The park also offers astronomy programs and night explorer programs. Find more information regarding upcoming events at Black Canyon of the Gunnison Astronomy & Stargazing.

Day 3: Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park – North Rim

For day 3, we’ll head to the park’s north rim which is 2 hours away.

This is do-able as a day trip from Montrose, you only need about a half day here. But if you’d rather spend the night closer to the north rim, I have hotel recommendations further along in this guide.

Note: The last 7 miles of the park access road and the entire North Rim Drive are unpaved gravel. The road is suitable for most cars. The road is not plowed, however, so its closed to winter and early spring visitors. If needed, call the park to inquire about current road conditions.

North Rim Ranger Station

There is no visitor center on the north rim, just a ranger station. Here you can check trail conditions with park rangers, fill up on water, and use the restroom.

Chasm View Nature Trail

Near the ranger station is Chasm View Nature Trail, a .5 mile loop that will be easy for most despite the moderate rating.

Here you’ll find one of the best viewpoints in the entire park. It’s really spectacular to witness at sunrise if you’re up for an early morning.

Hike To Exclamation Point 

After spending some time at Chasm View, head to nearby North Vista Trail to see Exclamation Point.

This is a 2.9 mile out-and-back hike that has a 344 foot elevation change and is rated easy despite the elevation change. Exclamation Point is another excellent vantage point, again, one of the best in the entire park. Here the Gunnison River is perfectly framed between the canyon’s huge cliff walls.

The trail does continue after Exclamation Point to Green Mountain Summit, but most visitors turn around here.

Viewpoints

For the remainder of the day, check out the viewpoints along North Rim Drive. There are a total of 5 overlooks, all of which are across from the south rim’s overlooks. The views are surprisingly different on this side though, so it’s worth seeing both.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Entry Fee & Reservations

The Private Vehicle Pass for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is $30, which covers 7 days in the park.

There’s modified pricing for pedestrians and motorcycles, and the park accepts all America the Beautiful Passes.

No park reservations are required at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Getting Around & Parking

You’ll need a car to get around Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park’s north and south rim, there are no shuttles here.

There are parking lots at all overlooks and trailheads, although parking is limited. This is one of the least visited national parks, so it doesn’t see huge crowds. Even so, the small parking lots of the south rim will fill up, especially around midday during summer.

The north rim sees even smaller crowds, so parking is not likely to be an issue there.

What To Wear & Pack

For days 1 and 3, you don’t need any special gear in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, comfortable athletic wear or basic hiking gear will do.

Keep in mind, summer here can be quite hot, so you’ll want light, breathable pieces and sun protection such as hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Having said that, even in summer, mornings and evenings will be chilly compared to midday. Pack layers which are easy to take on and off, and always carry a light rain jacket or wind breaker in case an afternoon storm hits.

Those planning to hike into the canyon on day 2, you will need proper hiking gear. Plan for durable pants, you will be scooting on your butt in sections. You also need hiking boots with good traction and adequate ankle support. Bring gloves for gripping the trail chains, as well as hiking poles for sections without chains.

There isn’t anywhere to get food in the park, so be sure to pack lunch and snacks each day. And again, since this park can be very hot, it’s important to bring plenty of water.

Below are items I pack when visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in summer or early fall:

• Shorts or lightweight pants
• Tank top or t-shirt
• Light weight long sleeve shirt or fleece
• Rain jacket or windbreaker
• Closed toe shoes
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Snacks/ lunch

Those hiking will also need:

• Hiking boots with good traction
• Wool socks
• Hiking poles
• Gloves (those hiking into the canyon)
• Backpack
• Small first aid kit

Weather In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park experiences all four seasons.

Summer in this park is quite warm, with highs regularly reaching the 90°Fs. Afternoon storms are common, these are brief but can be very intense with heavy rain, thunder, lightning, and hail.

Fall is usually mild and dry. Early fall will remain quite warm and summer-like. A chance for snow is possible, although it’s more likely in late fall.

Winter in Black Canyon of the Gunnison is cold but often sunny, although snow is common between sunny days. Average annual snowfall totals to about 30 – 55 inches per year. A majority of the park is closed November – April, including most of South Rim Road, all of North Rim Road, and all inner canyon routes.

Spring is warmer but still very winter-like. Snow is common in the mountains of Colorado well into April. During March and April, snow is very heavy and wet, on warmer days, rain is possible. May begins to warm up significantly and will be much more summer-like, especially late May.

Keep in mind, weather will vary throughout the park. The canyon floor, north canyon rim, and south canyon rim can all simultaneously experience different weather. Extreme weather is more likely on the canyon rims. It’s best to call the visitor center if you have weather-related questions pertaining to your visit.

Average Monthly Temperatures:

• January – 44° / 19° (Average High / Low F°)
• February – 48° / 22°
• March – 56° / 29°
• April – 64° / 36°
• May – 74° / 44°
• June – 86° / 53°
• July – 91° / 59°
• August – 89° / 57°
• September – 82° / 50°
• October – 68° / 39°
• November – 56° / 30°
• December – 44° / 21°

Where To Stay Near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park 

There is no lodging in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park’s north rim or south rim.

Below is information regarding nearby hotels, for more ideas though, check out The Best Hotels Near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.

Lodging Near South Rim:

From the south rim, the nearest town is Montrose, located about 20 minutes from the entrance station. There are many hotels and rentals here, a few options include:

• Cedar Creek Lodging ($-$$)
• The Rathbone Hotel ($$)
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Montrose ($$)

Those interested in camping, there is one developed campground in the park, South Rim Campground with 88 spaces. It’s open year-round and reservations are encouraged in summer.

There’s also a campground at the base of the canyon, East Portal Campground, this is first-come, first-served. Additionally, there are backcountry camping sites available by permit only.

There are numerous campgrounds, developed and undeveloped, in the region surrounding Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Lodging Near North Rim:

It’s possible to day trip to the north rim from Montrose, but if you’d prefer to spend the night there are a few hotels in the area. Just keep in mind, the north rim is more remote and offers relatively less lodging options and services.

The Hitching Post Hotel ($) or Stone House Inn ($$) are good options in the north rim’s nearest town, Crawford.

Otherwise, Hotchkiss Inn ($$) is a nice option about 35 minutes away in Hotchkiss. This is a larger town and has more services than Crawford.

The north rim does have a campground, North Rim Campground. It’s small with only 13 sites and is first-come, first-served. It’s open May – November.

There are also numerous undeveloped campgrounds in this region.

As you can see, 3 days is a great amount of time to see a majority of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (the accessible parts, that is). I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your visit and have the best time!

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Black Canyon and Colorado guides or head on over to Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.

More Information For Your Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Visit:

• Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park South Rim: Top Things To Do
• Top Hikes In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
• One Day In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Itinerary
• Best Hotels Near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

More Colorado Guides:

• Colorado Travel Guide (everything to know + tips for planning your trip!)
• All Colorado Guides