One Day In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park South Rim (Easy Day Trip Itinerary)
A narrow, steep canyon carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River formed the United States’ 55th national park: Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
This canyon is one of the deepest, steepest, and most narrow canyons in the US and is even home to the tallest vertical wall in Colorado.
The park is a bit remote, but once you’re here it’s really easy to explore and since it’s on the smaller side, you can see the park’s highlights in just a day.
Planning a day at Black Canyon and wondering what to do? This itinerary closely follows my one day itinerary from a previous visit.
Read on for the best things to do with one day in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park South Rim.
Note: The park is divided into two sections: North Rim & South Rim. The two are separated by about 80 miles. The South Rim is easier to access and is more developed, therefore it sees the most visitors. This post covers one day on the South Rim.
Itinerary For One Day In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park South Rim
Drive South Rim Road
South Rim Road is the core of the park, nearly every attraction is accessible from it.
This is a 7 mile, paved scenic route following the rim and connecting the visitor center, 12 viewpoints, and a handful of hikes.
Below is everything we did while following South Rim Road.
Tomichi Point Overlook
The first viewpoint as you approach the park, is Tomichi Point Overlook. In comparison to others here, it’s not the most remarkable. However, after a long drive, I was excited get out and catch a glimpse of the canyon, which makes this viewpoint worth a quick peak in my opinion.
Tomichi Point Overlook is located right off the road.
Stop By The Visitor Center
Up next on South Rim Road is the South Rim Visitor Center.
The 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, and of course, park rangers are always on hand to answer questions and help plan your visit.
This is also where you’ll access a number of park trails and the beautiful Gunnison Point Overlook. We skipped the hikes and went straight for Gunnison Point Overlook after checking out the visitor center.
Gunnison Point Overlook
This is one of the park’s best overlooks. From the viewing platform you’ll have excellent views of the canyon’s vertical, jagged rocks and a glimpse at the Gunnison River flowing below.
To access the viewpoint, a short walk is required.
Go For A Hike
If you are up for a hike, there are a few easy trails accessible from the visitor center:
Uplands Trail – 2.2 miles, 291 foot elevation change, rated easy.
Oak Flat Loop Trail – 1.4 miles, 344 foot elevation change, rated moderate.
Rim Rock Trail – 1.7 miles, 206 foot elevation change, rated moderate.
All three of these offer different vantage points of the canyon below.
While these hikes may be short, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. This park can be very warm in summer.
For more information and more ideas, check out Top Hikes In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.
Pulpit Rock Overlook
Our next stop was Pulpit Rock. This overlook allows you to better see the Gunnison River flowing through the canyon, which makes it a popular stopping point.
There’s a short walk to this viewpoint.
Cross Fissures Overlook
From here we stopped at Cross Fissures, which has a good vantage point for some of the canyon’s interesting and intricate rock formations.
This was one of my favorite stops, it’s different than most other viewpoints in the park.
There’s a short walk to Cross Fissures Overlook.
Chasm View
Chasm View is next along South Rim Road. Here you can see a wider opening in the canyon, with views of the river and some great bird watching.
This viewpoint is located right off the road.
Keep your parking spot here and walk over to the next stop, Painted Wall Overlook.
Painted Wall Overlook
Just around the corner from Chasm View is one of the park’s most famous overlooks: Painted Wall.
This overlook is a must-see, it’s where you can witness the staggering 2,250 foot tall Painted Wall. Not only is it the tallest cliff in Colorado, but it’s really beautiful too! This is thanks to miles of lightly colored streaking rock bands cutting through the dark rock.
From this viewpoint you can also see the Gunnison River flowing below. We spent the most time at this viewpoint, Painted Rock is really incredible to witness.
There’s a short walk to this viewpoint.
Cedar Point Overlook
A short .4 mile trail takes you to Cedar Point Overlook, the next stop on this one day itinerary. This viewpoint has an excellent view 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
Finally, at the end of South Rim Road is Warner Point. Warner Point provides a view into a wider portion of the canyon, allowing you to really take in the jagged rocks towering up above the Gunnison River.
This viewpoint requires a 1.5 mile hike, along the trail you’ll also have views of Montrose and Delta in the distance.
We arrived at Warner Point around noon and found no parking, so unfortunately we had to skip this hike.
Picnic At Sunset View Overlook
Accepting defeat, we backtracked to Sunset View Overlook for a picnic.
This is another very popular overlook in the park where you’ll find beautiful direct views of the Gunnison River cutting through the Black Canyon.
This viewpoint is located just off the road, there’s also picnic benches and vault restrooms here.
East Portal Road Into the Canyon
Finally, for the second half of the day at Black Canyon of the Gunnison, drive to the bottom of the canyon via East Portal Road. This is the only road that brings you to the base of the canyon.
The road’s entrance is located back at the park 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.
Watch The Sunset
If you’re still in the park as the day is ending, it’s worth sticking around for sunset.
It’s a treat to watch the setting sun cast oranges, reds, and purples on the towering canyon walls.
Sunset View Overlook is unsurprisingly one of the most popular spots to watch the show. However, Painted Wall and Cedar Point are great spots as well.
Since the park is small, it’s easy to retrace your steps and return to viewpoints you visited earlier in the day.
If you’re up for a really long day, stick around to view the night sky. Black Canyon is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning it’s one of the darkest night skies you can witness in the United States.
Half Day Itinerary For Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park South Rim
Only have a half day in the park? Consider this modified itinerary:
- Tomichi Point Overlook
- Visitor Center & Gunnison Point Overlook
- Pulpit Rock Overlook
- Cross Fissures Overlook
- Chasm View
- Painted Wall Overlook
- Cedar Point Overlook
- Hike to Warner Point
- Finish the day with a picnic in the park.
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, there are no shuttles here.
Nearly all attractions are located directly off South Rim Road which runs for 7 miles through the park. To access the canyon floor, you’ll use the 5-mile East Portal Road.
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 here will fill up, especially around midday during summer.
What To Wear & Pack
Most visitors don’t need anything special for a one day visit to 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.
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.
There isn’t anywhere to get food in the park, so be sure to pack lunch and snacks. And again, since this park can be quite warm, 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
- 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 or sneakers with good traction
- Wool socks
- Hiking poles
- Backpack
- Small first aid kit
Note: If wondering what to pack in winter or spring, check out What To Wear In Colorado In Winter.
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.
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.
The nearest town is Montrose, located about 20 minutes from the South Rim Entrance Station. There are many hotels and rentals here, a few options include:
For more ideas and information, check out The Best Hotels Near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.
Those interested in camping, there is one developed campground in the park, South Rim Campground. 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.
How Long Should You Spend At Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
One day is enough to see the park’s highlights.
However, to see the entire park, you will need more time. If, for example, you want to explore the South Rim, North Rim, and hike to the canyon floor, I would recommend three days in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Dog Policy
Leashed pets are allowed in Black Canyon of the Gunnison, but with limitations.
Check out Black Canyon of the Gunnison Pet Policy for more.
Getting To Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park South Rim
From Montrose
Montrose is the nearest town to the South Rim. The park is just over 12 miles northeast of the city, plan for about a 20 minute drive.
From Ouray
Ouray is about 48 miles south of Black Canyon of the Gunnison South Rim. The drive usually takes 1 hour, 5 minutes.
From Telluride
Telluride is 77 miles from Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s South Rim Entrance Station. Plan for a 1 hour, 45 minute drive in each direction.
From North Rim
The drive between the North Rim and South Rim entrances covers almost 80 miles, requiring about 2 hours both ways. There is no bridge spanning the canyon walls, therefore you must drive around.
As you can see, there’s a lot that can be done with one day in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park South Rim. 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 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
- Best Hotels Near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
- 3 Days In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park (North & South Rim Itinerary)
More Colorado Guides:
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