Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is awe-inspiring but still intimate. Experience some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. In more than two million years, the Gunnison River, along with the forces of weathering, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky.

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Discover Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Carved over millions of years, this dramatic landscape is home to some of the steepest and most rugged cliffs in North America. Experience the breathtaking depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, where sheer rock walls plunge 2,000 feet to the rushing Gunnison River below. Whether you’re gazing from awe-inspiring overlooks, hiking along the rim, or venturing into the canyon itself, the park offers a sense of grandeur and solitude unlike anywhere else. With its striking geology, dark night skies, and thrilling adventure opportunities, Black Canyon is a must-visit for those who love wild, untamed beauty.

Discover More About Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Learn more about the stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, featuring steep cliffsides, awe-inspiring birds of prey, and many other natural wonders that make this park one of the most geologically spectacular places in America. The Gunnison River, named after Captain John Gunnison, has sculpted the rocks of the canyon for more than 2 million years. Standing taller than the Eiffel Tower, or the Great Pyramids, or the Empire State Building, the Painted Wall is the highest cliff in Colorado, at 2,250 feet, part of the monumental canyon landscape that both overwhelms and inspires. Ute Indians, the first people to live in this area, avoided the dangerous canyon’s gorge for thousands of years, exploring and making their homes in the canyon’s rims only. This thrilling and beautiful park is now a place where all people can experience our living history.

Steep Black Canyon cliffs at sunset with a partly cloudy sky.

Exploring Canyonlands & Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Journey through Canyonlands National Park and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park on this perfect two-park hop for adventure seekers.

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Visit smart

Drive the rim roads

The South and North Rim drives feature stunning overlooks like Painted Wall and Chasm View, offering unforgettable canyon vistas.

Try a canyon hike

For a challenge, trek down to the Gunnison River via a rugged inner canyon route—but be prepared for steep, unmarked terrain.

Bring binoculars

Peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted along the cliffs and riverbanks.

Stay for stargazing

As a designated International Dark Sky Park, Black Canyon offers exceptional night skies perfect for observing the Milky Way.

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Upcoming events

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Geology Talk

May 12 10:00 am – 10:30 am

How did the Black Canyon form? What kinds of rocks are these? Discover answers to these and other questions about this deep, steep, and narrow canyon. Meet at Pulpit Rock Overlook at 10:00 am. 20-30 minutes. May be cancelled due to staffing changes...