16 Best Things to Do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — Top Hikes & Scenic Viewpoints

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of Colorado’s most dramatic and least visited national parks. Towering cliffs, narrow gorges, and the deep roar of the Gunnison River make it unlike any other canyon in the United States. Yet, many travelers overlook it — which makes it even more special. In this article, we’ll share the 16 best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — from breathtaking viewpoints and scenic drives to rewarding hikes and hidden gems. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, this guide will help you find the park’s top attractions and unforgettable experiences for both the South Rim and the North Rim.

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Quick Overview of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is divided into two main areas — the South Rim and the North Rim. Both sides offer breathtaking views, but they feel completely different in atmosphere and accessibility.

Black Canyon is a great addition to any Colorado road trip itinerary. Its dramatic scenery and experience feel completely different from places like Mesa Verde or Great Sand Dunes.

South Rim

The South Rim is the most popular and easiest to reach. It’s located 15 miles east of Montrose and open year-round. The road is paved and suitable for all vehicles. Here, you’ll find the main Visitor Center, several short hikes, and 12 scenic overlooks along a 7-mile road. This side is perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.

North Rim

The North Rim is wilder and much less crowded. It sits 11 miles south of Crawford and is open only from mid-April through mid-October. The road is gravel but fine for most cars in dry conditions. You’ll find only five overlooks here, a small ranger station, and a few hiking trails. The scenery is just as stunning — maybe even more dramatic — but it feels remote and peaceful.

If you have time, visit both rims. The drive between them takes about 2 hours via Highway 92 and offers beautiful mountain views. Each side gives a different perspective of the canyon’s power and beauty.

Chris and I spent several days exploring both the South Rim and the North Rim of the Black Canyon, and we were blown away by how different they feel. The South Rim is easier to reach, with more overlooks and paved roads. The North Rim is quieter, more remote, and perfect for travelers seeking solitude.

Here, the canyon walls plunge more than 2,700 feet almost straight down. In some places, the sunlight reaches the bottom for only 30 minutes a day, giving the canyon its name — Black Canyon. Every viewpoint feels raw, wild, and humbling.

We’ll cover how to explore safely, where to find the best views, and which activities are worth your time. If you’re planning your trip, take a look at our Colorado travel guide for a full overview of the best places and experiences.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Visit the South Rim for easy access and ranger programs.
– Head to the North Rim for solitude and rugged beauty.
– Always check road and weather conditions before your trip.
– Pack food, water, and fuel — services are very limited inside the park.

Now that you know the layout, let’s explore the 16 best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

The 16 Best Things to Do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison

The park is divided into two very different worlds — the North Rim and the South Rim. Each offers unique viewpoints, trails, and experiences.

In this section, we’ll start with the North Rim Highlights — the quieter, wilder side of the park. Then we’ll move to the South Rim Highlights, which are easier to reach and perfect for first-time visitors. Together, these 15 activities showcase the very best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison – North Rim Highlights:

1. Drive the Scenic North Rim Road

The North Rim Road is one of the most peaceful drives in any U.S. national park. This 4.5-mile gravel road follows the edge of the canyon, offering some of the most dramatic views you can imagine — without the crowds.

There are five main overlooks, each just a short walk from its parking area. The road is usually in good condition and fine for regular vehicles in dry weather. Allow one to one and a half hours to drive the route, stop at the overlooks, and take photos.

You’ll see the canyon’s incredible depth and the Gunnison River winding far below. The narrow cliffs, dark rock walls, and silence of this rim make it feel untouched.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler air.
– The road can close after heavy rain, so check conditions at the ranger station.
– Bring water and snacks — there are no services on the North Rim.
– Take your time; each stop offers a new angle of the canyon’s steep walls.

This short, scenic road gives a perfect first impression of the North Rim’s wild beauty and sets the tone for exploring the rest of the park.

2. Stop at the Five North Rim Overlooks

Along the North Rim Road, five overlooks offer completely different views of the canyon. Each stop is just a 1–3 minute walk from the parking area, so it’s easy to visit them all. Every viewpoint reveals a new perspective of the canyon’s incredible depth, color, and shape.

• The Narrows: Shows one of the tightest and deepest sections of the canyon — a perfect place to feel its scale.
• Balanced Rock: Features a massive boulder balanced high above the Gunnison River. It’s one of the most photographed spots on this rim.
• Big Island: Offers a fantastic view of a lone rock that looks like an island rising from the river.
• Island Peaks View: Lets you see across to the South Rim and realize just how narrow the canyon really is.
• Kneeling Camel View: Named for a rock formation shaped like a camel kneeling by the river. It’s the last stop before the road ends.

Each overlook is short, quiet, and easy to reach, but together they showcase how dramatic this canyon truly is.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Don’t rush — the lighting changes quickly and creates amazing photo effects.
– Bring binoculars to spot raptors and swifts flying below the cliffs.
– Wear sturdy shoes; some paths are uneven and rocky.
– Stop at Kneeling Camel View last — it’s a perfect place to rest and take in the silence.

These five overlooks alone make the North Rim worth visiting. They reveal the power of the Gunnison River and the timeless beauty of the canyon’s stone walls.

3. Hike to Exclamation Point

If you do only one hike on the North Rim, make it the Exclamation Point Trail. The name says it all — the view will make you gasp. Standing at the edge, you’ll look straight down into one of the steepest and narrowest sections of the Black Canyon. It’s one of the park’s most dramatic and photogenic spots.

The trail is part of the North Vista Trail and starts near the North Rim Ranger Station. It’s an easy to moderate 3-mile round trip, taking about 1.5 hours. The path leads through pinyon and juniper forest before opening suddenly to a cliff edge with a breathtaking view of the canyon and Gunnison River far below.

You’ll get one of the best inner-canyon perspectives anywhere in the park. Many visitors say it’s their favorite viewpoint — even compared to the South Rim.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the canyon walls.
– Bring water; there’s no shade and no water source on the trail.
– Wear hiking shoes with good grip — some sections are rocky.
– Pets are not allowed on this trail.

The short hike to Exclamation Point delivers a huge reward. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — and one of our personal favorites.

4. Walk the Chasm View Nature Trail

The Chasm View Nature Trail is a short, easy walk that leads to one of the most spectacular views in the park. It’s only 0.3 miles round trip, so it takes about 15–20 minutes, but the view will stay with you forever.

The trail begins near the North Rim Campground and winds through a peaceful pinyon-juniper forest before reaching the rim. From the overlook, you’ll see straight down into the canyon — about 1,800 feet above the Gunnison River. Across the gap rises the Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado at 2,250 feet. Its streaks of light and dark rock look like brushstrokes on stone.

If you visit at sunset, the canyon glows in deep gold and orange tones, and swifts often swoop through the air below.

Agnes’ Tips:
– This trail is perfect if you have limited time or want a quick stop.
– Go at sunset — the light on the Painted Wall is incredible.
– Bring binoculars to spot swifts, swallows, or eagles flying below.
– Pets are allowed on a leash.

Short, easy, and unforgettable — the Chasm View Nature Trail is one of the top attractions on the North Rim and a must for photographers.

5. Hike the Green Mountain Trail

For those who want a longer challenge and panoramic views, the Green Mountain Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. It’s the second part of the North Vista Trail, continuing beyond Exclamation Point.

This 7-mile round-trip trail climbs steadily to the top of Green Mountain, gaining about 1,200 feet of elevation. From the summit, you’ll see a sweeping 360° view — the San Juan Mountains, Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre Plateau, and the deep cut of the Black Canyon below. It’s the perfect spot to understand how massive and wild this landscape truly is.

The hike takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. It’s steep in places, so take breaks and bring plenty of water.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Start early to avoid heat and afternoon thunderstorms.
– Bring about a gallon of water per person — there’s no shade or refill station.
– Hiking poles help with the rocky sections and steep climb.
– Wear sturdy boots and pack a light snack for the top.
– Pets are not allowed.

The Green Mountain Trail is one of the best hikes in Black Canyon of the Gunnison for experienced hikers. It combines exercise, solitude, and some of the most breathtaking views in the park.

6. Try the Deadhorse Trail

The Deadhorse Trail is a peaceful, lesser-known hike that offers wide canyon views and a real sense of solitude. It’s located near the end of the North Rim Road, starting at the Kneeling Camel Overlook.

This trail covers about 5 miles round trip and takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours to complete. The path leads through the Black Canyon Wilderness Area, offering views of Deadhorse Gulch, the Gunnison River, and East Portal far below. It’s perfect for hikers who enjoy quiet trails and open scenery.

You’ll walk through sagebrush and juniper forests, and if you’re lucky, you might spot deer, hawks, or even golden eagles soaring above the cliffs.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Bring water — there’s no shade or water source along the trail.
– Start early to avoid the midday sun.
– Hiking shoes or boots with good traction are essential; parts of the trail are rocky.
– Pets are not allowed.

The Deadhorse Trail offers a more remote and wild experience than the busier South Rim hikes.

7. Spot the Painted Wall from the North Rim

The Painted Wall is the most famous feature of the Black Canyon — and seeing it from the North Rim gives one of the best angles. Rising 2,250 feet above the Gunnison River, it’s the tallest cliff in Colorado. To put that in perspective, it’s almost twice as high as the Empire State Building.

The wall gets its name from the light-colored veins of rock that cut through the dark metamorphic stone. These streaks were created by molten magma millions of years ago, and today they look like huge brushstrokes across the cliff — nature’s own painting.

You can see the Painted Wall from several overlooks on the North Rim, including Chasm View and Island Peaks View. Each spot reveals a slightly different perspective, and the colors change throughout the day as sunlight moves across the surface.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and contrast.
– Bring a zoom lens if you’re into photography — the details are stunning.
– Take your time — this is one of the park’s top highlights.
– Don’t lean over the edge; the drop is sheer and dizzying.

Standing before the Painted Wall is one of the most unforgettable experiences in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. It’s a perfect reminder of how powerful and ancient this landscape truly is.

8. Explore the Inner Canyon (With Permit Only)

If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a real challenge, you can descend into the Inner Canyon — one of the wildest adventures in Colorado. This is not a typical hike; it’s more of a steep scramble down loose rock, gravel, and slick dirt to reach the Gunnison River at the bottom.

There are no maintained trails, and routes are unmarked. You must find your own way, use your hands for balance, and be ready for a tough climb back up. Because of that, you’ll need a free wilderness use permit from a ranger station. Permits are issued in person on the day of your hike, and only to those physically prepared for the descent.

Popular North Rim routes include S.O.B. Draw, Long Draw, and Slide Draw. Each drops around 1,800 feet, and all are strenuous. Expect to spend 5 to 6 hours round trip, depending on your pace and conditions.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Only attempt this if you’re in excellent shape and used to backcountry hiking.
– Wear long pants — poison ivy grows over 5 feet tall in some sections.
– Bring at least a gallon of water, food, and a headlamp.
– Use sturdy boots, trekking poles, and gloves for gripping rock.
– Always tell someone your plan before descending.

The Inner Canyon is rugged, raw, and unforgettable — but it’s not for beginners. For most visitors, admiring it safely from the rim is more than enough.

9. Raft or Fish the Gunnison River

At the bottom of the canyon, the Gunnison River slices through black rock with incredible force. It’s wild, beautiful, and challenging — a dream for experienced rafters and anglers.

Rafting the Gunnison River Gorge is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the park. Only expert paddlers or guided groups should attempt it. The current is strong, the canyon is narrow, and rescue options are limited. Commercial rafting trips operate just outside the park, offering a safer way to enjoy the river without the extreme conditions of the inner gorge.

If you prefer something calmer, fishing is another great activity. The Gunnison River is known for its rainbow and brown trout, and some stretches are designated as Gold Medal Waters — meaning the fishing is excellent. You’ll need a Colorado fishing license and should always check local regulations before casting your line.

Agnes’ Tips:
– For rafting, book with a licensed outfitter familiar with the river’s conditions.
– Bring waders or grip shoes if fishing from shore — the rocks can be slippery.
– Check weather forecasts; storms can cause sudden water level changes.
– Always wear a life jacket, even near calm-looking water.

Whether you’re chasing trout or adventure, the Gunnison River offers one of the most powerful and memorable experiences in the park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison – South Rim Highlights:

10. Drive the South Rim Road

The South Rim Road is the easiest and most popular way to explore the park — and for good reason. This 7-mile paved route offers 12 incredible overlooks, each revealing a different view of the Black Canyon’s sheer walls and twisting river below.

Start your drive near the South Rim Visitor Center and follow the road to its end at High Point Overlook. Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to complete the drive with stops. Each overlook is just a short walk from the parking area, usually a few minutes at most.

Don’t miss Tomichi Point, Gunnison Point, Painted Wall View, Cedar Point, and Dragon Point — they’re among the most breathtaking spots in the park.

The road is open year-round, but in winter it’s closed beyond the Visitor Center to vehicles. You can still explore on foot, cross-country skis, or snowshoes.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Visit early morning or evening for softer light and fewer people.
– Bring water, snacks, and layers — there’s no shade along the rim.
– Watch your step near the edges; some overlooks drop straight down.
– In winter, check conditions before driving — snow and ice are common.

Driving the South Rim Road is one of the best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — a scenic route that delivers nonstop views of one of America’s most impressive canyons.

11. Visit the South Rim Visitor Center and Gunnison Point

Start your South Rim adventure at the South Rim Visitor Center, located near Gunnison Point. It’s the park’s main hub and the perfect place to learn about the canyon before heading out to the overlooks or trails.

Inside, you’ll find detailed exhibits on the canyon’s geology, wildlife, and history. Rangers can help with current trail conditions, safety updates, and weather forecasts. If you plan to hike into the Inner Canyon, this is also where you’ll need to get your wilderness use permit.

Just steps from the building, the Gunnison Point Overlook offers one of the most dramatic views in the park. Standing there, you’ll see the Gunnison River glimmering far below and the sharp, vertical walls that make the canyon so unique. It’s a breathtaking introduction to the park’s power and scale.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Stop here first for maps, restrooms, and updated information.
– Take a few minutes to watch the short park film — it’s worth it.
– Gunnison Point is ideal for sunrise photography when light hits the cliffs.
– Don’t rush — it’s one of the most impressive views right near your car.

The Visitor Center and Gunnison Point are must-stops, even if you have limited time. Together, they offer the perfect mix of information, safety, and jaw-dropping scenery.

12. Take One of the Short Scenic Hikes on the South Rim

The South Rim offers several short and easy hikes that bring you closer to the canyon’s edge — without requiring major effort or backcountry skills. These trails are perfect for stretching your legs between overlooks and enjoying the landscape at your own pace.

Here are a few of the best:

• Rim Rock Nature Trail (2 miles round trip): A pleasant, mostly flat walk that connects the campground with the Visitor Center. It follows the canyon’s rim and offers stunning views of the river below.
• Cedar Point Nature Trail (0.6 miles round trip): Short, easy, and full of rewards. Along the way, signs describe local plants, and at the end, you’ll see the Painted Wall — the tallest cliff in Colorado.
• Warner Point Nature Trail (1.5 miles round trip): Located at the end of the South Rim Road, this trail offers sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains and Uncompahgre Valley. It’s slightly uphill but well worth the effort.

All these hikes are well-marked and easy to follow. They give you a sense of how vast and vertical the Black Canyon really is.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Bring water — there’s little shade on most trails.
– Wear sturdy shoes; even short trails have rocky patches.
– Start early or late in the day to avoid heat and harsh sunlight.
– Keep an eye on kids near the edges; the drop-offs are steep.

These short trails are among the top activities in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, offering unforgettable views with minimal effort.

13. Photograph the Painted Wall from the South Rim

No trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison is complete without seeing — and photographing — the Painted Wall from the South Rim. It’s the park’s most iconic feature and one of the most striking cliffs in the entire American West.

At 2,250 feet tall, the Painted Wall is the highest cliff in Colorado. The pale streaks running through the dark rock are ancient veins of magma that solidified millions of years ago. They create natural patterns that look like abstract art, glowing in shades of gold and pink when hit by sunlight.

The best place to view it is from the Painted Wall Viewpoint, located along the South Rim Road. You can also see it from nearby Cedar Point, where the perspective is slightly wider.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Visit in the late afternoon — the light hits the cliff beautifully then.
– Bring a zoom lens or use your phone’s telephoto mode for close-up detail.
– Be patient with the light — it changes quickly and transforms the colors.
– Stay behind the railings; the edge drops straight down over 2,000 feet.

The Painted Wall is one of those places where you can stand silently for minutes, completely awed. Photographing it is one of the best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — and a moment you’ll never forget.

14. Explore the Inner Canyon from the South Rim (Permit Required)

For experienced hikers, descending into the Inner Canyon from the South Rim is one of the park’s most intense and unforgettable adventures. These routes aren’t typical trails — they’re steep, unmarked, and extremely demanding. You’ll scramble down loose rock, dirt, and scree nearly 2,000 feet to reach the Gunnison River.

You must have a free wilderness use permit, available only in person at the South Rim Visitor Center. Permits are limited and issued on the same day, so arrive early if you plan to hike down.

There are three main descent routes from the South Rim:

• Gunnison Route: The easiest and most popular option. It starts near the Visitor Center and includes a section with a safety chain to assist on steep rock.
• Tomichi Route: Shorter but much steeper. The entire path is loose rock and exposed to the sun, making it tough even for fit hikers.
• Warner Route: The longest and most remote descent, often done as an overnight trip to camp by the river.

Each route requires excellent physical fitness, navigation skills, and preparation. The climb back up is slow and exhausting, especially in heat.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Attempt only if you’re experienced and well-prepared.
– Wear long pants — poison ivy grows thick along the canyon floor.
– Bring at least a gallon of water, snacks, and a headlamp.
– Weather changes fast — pack rain gear and warm layers.
– Always tell someone your hiking plan before you go.

Hiking into the Inner Canyon is not for everyone, but for skilled hikers, it’s one of the most thrilling and humbling things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Standing at the river’s edge, surrounded by towering cliffs, gives a whole new meaning to “feeling small.”

15. Drive Down East Portal Road

If you want to see the Gunnison River up close — without hiking into the Inner Canyon — take the East Portal Road. This steep, winding route descends from the South Rim entrance all the way to the river and the Crystal Dam.

The road is about 7 miles long and drops more than 2,000 feet in elevation. It’s paved but very steep, with tight curves and grades up to 16%. Because of that, vehicles over 22 feet long are not allowed. Drive slowly and use low gear to avoid overheating your brakes.

Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find picnic areas, restrooms, and river access for fishing or relaxing by the water. The canyon walls rise dramatically on both sides, giving you a true sense of its scale.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Check conditions before you go — the road sometimes closes due to rockfall or weather.
– Bring lunch or snacks; it’s a great picnic spot by the river.
– Be careful on the descent — it’s steep but worth every turn.
– Watch for mule deer or marmots near the road.

Driving the East Portal Road is one of the top attractions in the park. It’s your chance to stand at the river’s edge and look straight up at the cliffs that seem to touch the sky.

16. Watch Wildlife and Enjoy Sunrise or Sunset

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is not just about cliffs and views — it’s full of life. Early morning and late evening are the best times to spot mule deer, elk, coyotes, and even black bears wandering through the pinyon-juniper forests. Look up, too — you might see golden eagles, peregrine falcons, or swifts soaring through the canyon.

Sunrise and sunset are magical here. At sunrise, the canyon slowly fills with light, revealing its incredible depth and detail. Sunset brings warm orange and pink tones that paint the canyon walls. The best viewpoints for golden-hour photography are Sunset View, Gunnison Point, and Chasm View.

Because the park has almost no light pollution, it’s also one of the best stargazing spots in Colorado. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky from rim to rim.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for wildlife and bird photography.
– Dress warmly — evenings cool down quickly, even in summer.
– Stay a bit after sunset to enjoy the night sky.
– Be quiet and patient; the park’s calm makes wildlife easier to spot.

Watching the canyon wake up or fall asleep is one of the best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — a peaceful reminder that nature here still moves at its own rhythm.

Practical Information for Visitors

Before exploring Black Canyon of the Gunnison, it’s worth knowing a few key details to make your visit safe and enjoyable. This park is rugged, remote, and often quieter than other Colorado parks — which is part of its charm. But that also means you need to come prepared.

When to Visit
The South Rim is open year-round, but the North Rim and East Portal Road close in winter due to snow. The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when roads and trails are open. Summer brings warmer temperatures and thunderstorms in the afternoons, so start hikes early.

Getting There
– South Rim Entrance: 15 miles east of Montrose via Highway 347.
– North Rim Entrance: 11 miles south of Crawford via Black Canyon Road.
There’s no bridge between rims — driving from one side to the other takes about 2 hours.

Weather and Safety
Weather can change fast. It might be sunny one minute and stormy the next. Bring layers, water, sunscreen, and a windbreaker. Cell service is unreliable, especially in the canyon and on the North Rim.

Where to Stay
The park has small campgrounds on both rims, but they fill quickly. Book in advance through the National Park Service website. The nearest towns — Montrose, Crawford, and Gunnison — have hotels, motels, and restaurants.

Agnes’ Tips:
– Stop at a Visitor Center first to check conditions and get a map.
– Bring plenty of water and snacks; services are very limited inside the park.
– Watch your step near edges — the drop-offs are sudden and steep.
– Respect wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison might be smaller than other national parks, but it delivers massive views and unforgettable adventures for anyone who comes prepared.

Final Thoughts

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park may not be the most famous park in Colorado, but it’s easily one of the most striking. Its sheer cliffs, narrow walls, and deep silence make it a place that feels truly wild — almost untouched by time.

Chris and I spent several days exploring both rims, and every visit left us speechless. The Exclamation Point Trail on the North Rim gave us one of the most powerful canyon views we’ve ever seen. Standing before the Painted Wall was unforgettable — its size and colors are impossible to capture in photos. And the South Rim Road surprised us with viewpoint after viewpoint, each one more breathtaking than the last.

If you love landscapes that feel remote and dramatic, this park belongs on your Colorado road trip list. Whether you drive along the rim, hike to a viewpoint, or simply watch the sunset over the cliffs, you’ll leave with a deep respect for this place — and a desire to return.

The Black Canyon might not shout for attention, but it doesn’t need to. Its beauty speaks quietly, and it stays with you long after you leave.

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