Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located in western Colorado, United States. The park is known for its dramatic, steep-walled canyon carved by the Gunnison River. The nearest towns are Montrose, 15 miles to the southwest, and Gunnison, about 60 miles to the east. The park is divided into two main sections: the North Rim and the South Rim, with the South Rim being more developed and accessible. The canyon was first designated a national monument in 1933 and later became a national park on October 21, 1999. The Black Canyon earned its name because its walls are so steep that parts of the canyon receive only a few minutes of sunlight each day. The park preserves the sheer cliffs, spires, and narrow gorges that showcase the power of erosion over millions of years. Parking is available at several locations within the park, with major parking areas near the South Rim Visitor Center, at overlooks along the South Rim Road, and at the North Rim Ranger Station. There is an entrance fee of approximately $30 per vehicle, with annual passes also offered. Parking can be limited during peak visitation periods, particularly near popular viewpoints like Gunnison Point and Chasm View. Wildlife in the park includes mule deer, black bears, elk, and mountain lions. Bird species such as golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and great horned owls are frequently spotted soaring above the canyon. The rugged environment also supports lizards and small mammals like rock squirrels and chipmunks. The park’s flora varies with elevation, featuring piñon pine and juniper woodlands, sagebrush, and mountain mahogany. Along the riverbanks, cottonwoods and willows thrive. Notable landmarks include the Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado, and the Gunnison River, which offers opportunities for fishing and rafting. Public transportation options to the park are limited, so visitors typically arrive by car from Montrose or other nearby towns.