5 days in Black Canyon of the Gunnison & Curecanti

Curecanti river winding around a sunlit mountain under a clear blue sky.

Discover Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area in this five-day journey aimed at adventure seekers. Complete challenging hikes into the canyon, paddle Blue Mesa reservoir, and camp under incredible dark skies.

Duration
5 days
Perfect for
Experienced hikers, campers, and watersports enthusiasts.
Highlights
Challenging hikes, kayaking, scenic drives, and remote canyon views.
Day 1 and 2

Exploring Black Canyon’s South Rim

Three people outside a visitor center, one in a park ranger outfit, on a cloudy day.

Start at the Visitor Center

Set up camp at the South Rim Campground and begin your adventure at South Rim Visitor Center. Learn about the canyon through interactive exhibits and get trail information and permits.

Black Canyon under blue sky with sunlight casting shadows on rugged cliffs.

Drive the South Rim Road

Drive the 7-mile South Rim Road, stopping at scenic overlooks and hiking nearby trails.

Man standing by a river in a rocky canyon, surrounded by greenery.

Hiking

Take on the challenging Gunnison Route Trail (3 miles roundtrip) for a firsthand look at the river-carved depths of the canyon. 

Day 3 and Day 4

Explore Curecanti National Recreation Area

Mountain lake with yellow wildflowers, under a blue sky with clouds.

Set up camp

For a change of scenery, camp at Elk Creek or Lake Fork Campgrounds to make the most of your days at this Colorado park. Then get ready for some fun and relaxation on the Blue Mesa Reservoir.

Kayak on calm lake near rocky cliff under clear blue sky.

Paddle Blue Mesa Reservoir

Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Elk Creek Marina and explore the hidden coves of the Blue Mesa Reservoir. 

Boat wake in a narrow canyon with steep rocky walls under a clear blue sky.

Explore Morrow Point Reservoir

Explore the dramatic cliffs and fjord-like scenery of Morrow Point.

Day 5

Explore the North Rim

Canyon with rocky cliffs, greenery, and a river below under a partly cloudy sky.

Hike North Vista Trail

Take on a moderate (1.6-mile one way) hike to Exclamation Point, or continue (3.6-mile one way) to Green Mountain, for dramatic views of the canyon.

Steep rocky canyon with a river and sparse greenery.

Final scenic stop

Before heading home, stop at The Narrows overlook for one last breathtaking view of the canyon’s depths - so called because it is the narrowest part of the canyon.

Milky Way over a dark canyon with a winding river below.
Optional add-on

Constellation Tour

Participate in an evening ranger program at the South Rim to learn more about the incredible dark skies found here.

Visit Smart

Check regulations

Contact the visitor center ahead of time for information about inner canyon permits, boating regulations, and reservoir access. 

Know your limits

Hiking into the canyon is strenuous–check canyon conditions ahead of time.

Be prepared

There is very limited cell service near these two wild Colorado parks. Be prepared to navigate and communicate without using your phone. 

Leave no trace

These areas are important to many Indigenous peoples. Respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.

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