Trip Ideas

The Gunnison River, as seen from Dragon Point Overlook. Overlooks on both rims of Black Canyon allow visitors to see into the steep, deep canyon below.

NPS/Dani Goodman

Use these trip ideas to plan your own adventure to the park. If time allows, stop by both rims of Black Canyon and visit the adjacent Curecanti National Recreation Area.

South Rim and East Portal

If you have....

• 1-2 Hours: Stop by the visitor center, tour the South Rim Drive, and view Black Canyon from some of the 12 overlooks along the way.

• Half a day: Visit all of the above and hike one of the short, canyon rim trails. Check the visitor center or calendar for ranger program offerings and attend one.

• Full day: Hike several of the canyon rim trails. Take a drive down to East Portal.

• Many days: Stay at South Rim Campground or East Portal Campground. Explore the inner canyon via one of the strenuous, challenging wilderness routes (permit required).

North Rim

If you have...

• 1-2 Hours: Stop by the ranger station, tour the North Rim Road, and view Black Canyon from one of the overlooks.

• Half a Day: Enjoy the scenic drive and hike some of the North Rim trails.

• 1-2 Days: Use the North Rim Campground as a base camp and hike all of the canyon rim trails. Explore the inner canyon via one of the strenuous, challenging wilderness routes (permit required).