Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the rawest forms of nature's marvelous beauty. Named after the Gunnison River flanked next to the towering gorges, the Black Canyon always grabs the attention of tourists who enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, or enjoying scenic views.
Locally known as "Colorado's own Grand Canyon," there is nothing not to love about this tourist attraction. However, proper planning and preparation are critical for first-timers who want their experience to match their high expectations. Here are 10 essential things to look out for when visiting the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
10 Rock Climbing
Rock climbing can be challenging and fun at the same time. From taking careful steps on a rocky slope to digging an ice ax into the snow-capped regions, adventurous vacationers have plenty to explore in this alpine playground. The canyon walls rise to 2,000 feet and consist of monolithic and volcanic rocks.
Rock Climbing is a popular activity in Black Canyon, but only for experts. First-timers are always advised to get up-to-date information on less challenging routes.
9 Boating
The Curecanti National Recreation Park next to Black Canyon is home to thrilling boat rides worth every moment. The ranger-led tours are perfect for learning the park's geology and history while boat riding.
Boat rides are entirely dependent on the Colorado weather. Packing sunscreen or rain gear in anticipation of the sudden weather changes.
8 Watch The Nightsky
Nature lovers can now add stargazing to their to-do list, thanks to the non-light polluted spots in Black Canyon. Since 2015, the Dark Sky Association has listed the park as a Dark Sky Park, meaning it's an ideal site for stargazing. In addition, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers guided constellation tours, where visitors can marvel at the breathtaking views of the Milky Way.
The Park offers a variety of sky-viewing options, including renting a telescope for an enhanced viewing experience.
7 Explore The Hiking Trails
Black Canyon boasts many well-defined hiking trails that offer chills and thrills to avid hikers. From easy half-mile hikes to steep three-mile trails, there is nothing not to love about this adventure-inviting terrain. Unfortunately, shade is scarce in the Black Canyon, so carrying a hat, snacks, and water is an added advantage for a successful hike.
Exciting hike trails include Oak Flat Loop Trail, Warner Point Trail, Upland Trails, and North Vista Trails.
6 Fishing
For fish lovers, Black Canyon offers an excellent chance to catch trophy-size trout. The river, designated as Gold Medal Water and Wild Trout River, is the best place to spend a lazy summer with a group of friends. However, using bait during fishing is prohibited, but artificial lures are allowed. A fishing license is also required before indulging in this aquatic glory.
It's important to read the rules before fishing.
5 Photography
To any photographer, unexplored territory means opportunities for fresh and novel perspectives through the lens. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a blend of picture-perfect landscape, an inviting light, and panoramic points of view. Photography enthusiasts should not miss the Painted Wall, which tops the list of most photographed areas in Colorado.
Tourists can test their photography skills as they compete to take a challenging snap at the most phenomenal part of the canyon, The Devil's Tongue.
4 Enjoy Scenic Overlooks
As expected, photographs can't define the spectacular nature of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Honestly, the vast landscape cannot be summarized in a photo frame. Luckily, the park knows this and has set up plenty of overlooks and viewpoints where trekkers can stand and gaze upon the awe-inspiring canyon.
Top viewpoints in the park include The Kneeling Camel, Tomichi Point, Sunset View, and The Narrows.
3 The North And South Rim
Each rim consists of campsites and serene picnic areas, with the South Rim having more. Booking a reservation early is a good idea, as most campgrounds operate on a first-come-first-served basis. The South Rim is the more visited, though locals insist the North Rim is better. Driving from the South Rim to the North Rim takes about two hours, which gives travelers ample time to make stops and enjoy beautiful views of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
At $16 per night, camping enthusiasts can stay till twilight at campgrounds such as North and South Rim camping sites.
2 Wildlife Watching With The Kids
The park is located very far from the city, making animals effortlessly feel at home. Carrying a pair of binoculars is a great idea, as bird watching is one of the park's major strongholds. Wildlife watching can be fun, especially during family getaways where kids get to learn about new furry friends. Easy-to-spot animals in Black Canyon include Elks, American Beavers, Golden Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, Bighorn Sheep, and Hopi Chipmunk, to name a few.
For a safer wildlife watching experience, Black Canyon of the Gunnison does not allow pets. This is because mule deer are aggressive to dogs and view them as a threat to their young ones.
1 Checking In The Nearby Hotels
Whereas Black Canyon of the Gunnison has no on-site hotels, visitors who want more than a camping experience can visit Montrose town, which has a fine selection of boutique hotels and Airbnbs. Hotels where guests can have a relaxing night after a long adventure are Black Canyon Motel, Days Inn by Wyndham, and The Lodge at Needle Rock.
Hotels offering family-sized suites include Red Arrow Inn and Montrose Hampton Inn