Black Canyon near Tomichi Point
Photo: NPS Photo/Lynch
About
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.
Activities
AstronomyStargazingCampingBackcountry CampingCar or Front Country CampingRV CampingClimbingRock ClimbingFishingFly FishingHikingBackcountry HikingFront-Country HikingHorse TrekkingHorseback RidingPaddlingKayakingJunior Ranger ProgramSkiingCross-Country SkiingSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmShoppingBookstore and Park Store
Directions
South Rim: 7 miles north on CO Highway 347 from the intersection with U.S. Highway 50 east of Montrose. Physical/GPS address is: 9800 Highway 347, Montrose, CO 81401 North Rim: 11 miles southwest of Crawford, Colorado. From CO Highway 92, turn west on Black Canyon Road approximately 3 miles south of Crawford. Follow the road signs to the park.
Get directions →Weather
Today's Weather: http://www.weather.com/weather/today/l/NPBLCA:13:US CLIMATE Weather can vary greatly throughout the day. Summer daytime temperatures range between 55 to 90F (13 to 32C), nights 45 to 60F (7 to 16C). Winter daytime temperatures range between 15 to 40F (-9 to 4C), nights 10 to 20F (-12 to -6C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer. Snow accumulation varies greatly year to year. Layered clothing appropriate for the season is recommended.
News
Nov 20, 2025
Trails opening at Black Canyon
The Oak Flat and Uplands Trails are now open to the public at the South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park after being closed since July 10, 2025.
Sep 18, 2025
Black Canyon Winter Operations 2025/2026
As summer comes to an end, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will transition to winter operations. Check the park websites for operational hours, closures, and current conditions before your trip.
Sep 4, 2025
Black Canyon and Curecanti move to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective September 5 at 12:01 am.
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle$30.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$25.00