Black Canyon of the Gunnison: Overlooks, Hikes & What to Know

A guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — the South Rim overlooks, Painted Wall, dark skies, when to go, and where to stay in Montrose.

The short version: Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the steepest, deepest, and narrowest canyons in North America — sheer walls of dark rock plunging nearly 2,000 feet to the Gunnison River. It’s the most dramatic and least-visited of Colorado’s four parks. Gateway town: Montrose, about 15 minutes from the South Rim. Part of our Colorado national parks guide.

Most visitors skip it, which is exactly why it’s special — raw, vertigo-inducing scenery without the crowds.

An overlook at Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

What to do

Drive the South Rim Road and stop at the overlooks — Gunnison Point, Chasm View, and Painted Wall, Colorado’s tallest cliff.
Walk the rim trails for different angles on the abyss.
Stargaze — it’s an International Dark Sky Park.
Experienced only: steep, unmarked inner-canyon routes descend to the river.

When to go

Late spring through fall is best; the South Rim Road is plowed only to the visitor center in winter, with the rest closed by snow. Summer days are warm on the rim but the inner canyon is a serious undertaking in any season.

Getting there & where to stay

The South Rim is about 15 minutes from Montrose in western Colorado, which has the closest hotels and is an easy add-on to a southwest road trip.

Where to stayFind hotels in MontroseThe closest base to Black CanyonCheck availability → Book onlineStargaze at Black CanyonA certified Dark Sky Park - book a guided astronomy tourBook now →

Black Canyon FAQ

Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like dramatic scenery without crowds. Its sheer, dark walls dropping nearly 2,000 feet to the river are unlike anywhere else in Colorado, and as the least-visited of the state's four parks, it rarely feels busy.

How long do you need at Black Canyon?

Half a day is enough to drive the South Rim Road and stop at the major overlooks. Add more time for rim hikes or if you plan a strenuous inner-canyon route, which is for experienced hikers only.

When is Black Canyon open?

The park is open year-round, but the South Rim Road is only plowed to the visitor center in winter and the rest is closed by snow. Late spring through fall offers full access to the overlooks.