What You Need to Know Before You Go

What if I told you there’s a canyon so steep, so dramatic, and so mysterious that parts of it only see 33 minutes of sunlight a day? Welcome to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—a raw, untamed gem hiding in plain sight.

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If you’re planning a trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, here’s what you’ll want to know to make the most of your visit.

Location – South Rim Visitor Center

• Address: 9800 Highway 347, Montrose, CO 81401
• How to Get There:
  • South Rim: 7 miles north on CO Highway 347 from U.S. Highway 50 (east of Montrose).
  • North Rim: 11 miles southwest of Crawford. From CO Highway 92, turn west on Black Canyon Road.

We visited in June 2025, dock camping on peaceful BLM land just outside the park. With our America the Beautiful National Park Pass in hand (you can check current prices here), we entered right after opening to enjoy the cool morning air and a nearly empty park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Hours & Seasons

• The park is open 24/7, year-round. No timed entry—just come when you’re ready!
• South Rim Visitor Center:
  • Open daily 8 AM–5 PM
  • Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
  • Offers exhibits, maps, books, water (seasonal), trailheads, and vault toilets

Pro Tip: Summer parking might look limited at first, but don’t panic—drive past the first small lot and you’ll find a second lot tucked around the bend.

South vs. North Rim

• The park is divided by the canyon, and there is no road or bridge connecting the two rims. To see both, plan for 2+ hours of non-park road driving.
• We explored the South Rim, which offers dramatic views and easier access.
• The North Rim is quieter and more rugged. While we didn’t visit this time, know that the ranger station there is unstaffed but open 24 hours with maps and a permit kiosk on the porch.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Scenic Drives & Viewpoints

The South Rim Drive is a 7-mile paved route with 12 scenic overlooks between Tomichi Point and High Point. It takes around 2–3 hours to fully enjoy each stop.
Our favorite? Painted Wall Viewpoint—the tallest sheer cliff in Colorado!

Ranger Programs

From geology talks to stargazing nights, free ranger programs are available mid-May to September. Check the visitor center or park calendar for up-to-date info.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Final Tip

Arrive early, bring water, and don’t rush—Black Canyon rewards those who linger. Whether you’re chasing jaw-dropping views or geeking out over geology, this park delivers a big experience in a compact space.

Don’t forget your adventure essentials—that sun hat isn’t just for style, and sunscreen is your VIP pass to not looking like a lobster by lunch!

Let us know your favorite overlook or if you’re brave enough to hike into the depths!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much time do you need at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
A: Most visitors can experience the South Rim in a half to full day, especially if you’re doing the scenic drive and stopping at overlooks. Add time if you plan to hike, attend a ranger program, or visit both rims (which requires a 2+ hour drive around the canyon).

Q: Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! If you’re into dramatic landscapes, unique geology, and fewer crowds than other national parks, Black Canyon is a must-see. The depth and narrowness of the canyon are unlike any other park in the U.S.

Q: Can you drive through Black Canyon of the Gunnison?
A: You can’t drive through the canyon (no bridge or road connects the rims), but you can drive along both the South and North Rims on scenic routes that lead to spectacular overlooks. South Rim Drive is the most accessible and popular.

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Love camping?

Then you’ll enjoy our peaceful stay at Miller Creek Campground. Read our full blog about Miller Creek here.