Deep, Steep, and Narrow

Big enough to be overwhelming, yet still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time. Come see some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. Forces of nature and the Gunnison River sculpted this canyon over two million years. The result is a vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Read More

A wooden cabin style visitor center with people walking towards it and a flag flying above
Operating Hours & Seasons

Find out seasonal openings and visitor center hours.

People standing at a fenced overlook at the edge of a canyon. Steep, canyon walls are beyond them.
Current Conditions

Know before you go! Check current conditions, park alerts, closures, weather, and more.

A hiker sits on a large rock overlooking a dark, steep canyon.
Things to Do

Make the most of your visit by planning your activities and experiences in advance.

Blue and white tent at a wooded campsite. Gravel path leads to the campsite.
Camping

Decide which campground is right for you - whether you're driving a RV or pitching a tent.

Snow dusts the top of brown, grey, and pink canyon walls.
Geology

The geologic story of Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of uplift, volcanism, and the erosive force of water.

A male bighorn sheep stands on a rocky outcropping in front of vegetation.
Nature

Learn about the plants and animals that exist from the canyon rim to uplands.

Screenshot of a webcam view out towards a canyon. Sunset light illuminates the canyon.
Webcams

What's happening at the canyon right now? Check it out.

A person wearing a life jacket stands on the rocky bank of a turbulent river.
Inner Canyon Wilderness Use

All inner canyon use, including hiking, kayaking, and climbing, requires a wilderness permit.

The Milky Way and a night sky full of stars shines over a dark canyon
Black Canyon Regional AstroFest 2024

Mark your calendars for September 5-7. Astro Fest returns to celebrate dark night skies at three sites along the Gunnison River corridor.

Distant rocky pinnacles rise above a large reservoir with sagebrush in the foreground.
One River System, Two Park Experiences

Visitors to nearby Curecanti National Recreation Area can experience the Gunnison River in a different form.

Last updated: September 6, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

102 Elk Creek
(GPS/physical address = 9800 Highway 347, Montrose, CO)

Gunnison, CO 81230

Phone:

970-641-2337

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