Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

Cutting deep through the rock southeast of Crested Butte, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of Colorado's most unique, and magnificent, features.

The 13 miles of rugged walls plunge over 2,000 feet down from the canyon rim to where the Gunnison River runs. The Black Canyon has earned its name from the shade that the near-vertical rock walls cast down to the canyon floor, leaving much of the canyon bathed in shadows, making the canyon rock appear black.

South Rim
One of the most popular features of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a seven mile drive that winds along the South Rim. In addition to short hikes and scenic overlooks, the South Rim Visitor Center, featuring tourbooks and other interpretive materials, can be found along the drive. There are several unmaintained trails that lead to canyon bottom from the South Rim, including the popular Gunnison Route. The South Rim campground is open year round.

North Rim
Less developed and less visited than the South Rim, the North Rim offers a more remote get-away for those hoping to avoid crowds. The North Rim also offers longer hikes, such as the seven mile round-trip to Green Mountain. The North Rim campground is open Spring through Fall.

Wildlife
Many plants and animals call the plethora of ecosystems in the Black Canyon home. Although you may find or hear evidence of marmots, coyotes, badgers, black bears, porcupines, raptors (including the fastest bird on the planet, the peregrine falcon) and great horned owls, you won't ever find any poisonous snakes. Anglers will also be happy to hear that the large trout fishing along the Gunnison is outstanding.

Climbing
The vertical walls of the Black Canyon offer exciting opportunities for multi-pitch rock climbing, although climbers should be aware that it is not an area for beginner climbers.