News Release

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Entering Phase II of Reopening

Date: May 29, 2020
Contact: Sandra Snell-Dobert, 970-641-2337, x227

Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National is continuing to increase recreational access and services. The National Park Service (NPS) is working service-wide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.

The following facilities will be opening in Phase II

June 1 – South Rim Campground A and B Loops – Reservations Recommended (recreation.gov)

 North Rim Campground

 East Portal Road and Campground

 Overnight use in the Inner Canyon – Permit Required 

With public health in mind, the following facilities remain closed:

South Rim Visitor Center – rangers are staffing a desk outside the visitor center to issue Wilderness permits, answer your questions, and help visitors get the most out of their experiences at the park. Rangers will be wearing face coverings; visitors are encouraged to do so as well. 

In order to protect sensitive wildlife during breeding season, the following seasonal restrictions will remain in effect: 

* Climbing routes on the Painted Wall and near the Curecanti Needle closed until July 15.
* Dog walking restrictions in and around the South Rim Campground will be in effect June 8 to August 13 due to mule deer fawning.

As a reminder, the following facilities and services are currently available:

* South Rim Drive, North Rim Drive and all viewpoints
* Day hiking on Oak Flat and Rim Rock Trails
* Inner Canyon Routes – Permit Required

Entrance fees may be paid on-line at recreation.gov. 

Keep in mind that Gunnison and Montrose counties as well as the state of Colorado may be under Public Health Orders that restrict travel and visitors. Please check before you visit your National Park Service areas. The following websites provide updates:

https://www.montrosecounty.net/957/Corona-Virus-COVID-19

https://covid19.gunnisoncounty.org/

https://covid19.colorado.gov/about-covid-19

“The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount. At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, our operational approach will be to examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance and will be regularly monitored,” said Superintendent Deanna Greco. “It is the responsibility of park staff as well as visitors to practice social distancing and proper hand cleaning to prevent further outbreaks of COVID-19.” 

Please practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding, and recreate responsibly. 

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on our website nps.gov/blca and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations across the country will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus.