South Rim

 
A view of a steep deep canyon with dark walls and greenery
Pulpit Rock Overlook (above) is one of 12 overlooks along the South Rim of Black Canyon.

NPS photo

 
 
 

South Rim Visitor Center

The visitor center is open all year, but opening and closing times vary by season. The visitor center is staffed with rangers and has exhibits, the park film, and a bookstore. Three hiking trails and Gunnison Point Overlook may be accessed from the visitor center. Maps, newspapers, junior ranger books, and wilderness permits are available within the visitor center. There is a self-registration kiosk for wilderness permits when the visitor center is closed. The visitor center has car parking and some trailer/ RV parking. In the summer, the parking lot often fills.

Location: 7 miles north on CO Highway 347 from the intersection with U.S. Highway 50.
GPS: N 38.5550 W -107.6866

 

Water

In the summer months, water fill-up stations are available in the campground and at the visitor center. All of the water on the South Rim is trucked in, so we ask that you use the fill-up stations conservatively and be prepared with your own water. Water is not available during spring, fall, or winter.

Overlooks

There are 12 overlooks you can visit by car, and more along the hiking trails.

 
Panoramic image of people standing at a canyon overlook. There are waysides and wooden fencing along the edge of the overlook.
Chasm View, one of the 12 overlooks along the South Rim

NPS/D. Goodman

 

Things to Do

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    Inner Canyon Use

    Exploring the inner canyon from the South Rim requires skill, experience, and preparation to be successful. Routes are not recommended for visitors with health conditions, such as heart or lung issues. Wilderness routes are not trails; they are unmarked, very steep with loose rock, and physically demanding.

    The inner canyon is also a designated wilderness area and requires a permit to enter. Permit availability and process varies by season and activity.
     
    wooden arrowhead sign marking the wilderness area boundary along a trail in the woods
    South Rim Routes

    Scramble to the river on a wilderness route from the South Rim.

    a rock climber clinging to a gray rock wall under a large overhang
    Rock Climbing

    Explore the canyon up close and personal. Learn how to do it safely.

     

    Camping

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    Last updated: July 11, 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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