Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a protected area in Montrose County, Colorado, that encloses a narrow, deep gorge carved from dark metamorphic rock. The Gunnison River flows at the bottom of this formation, which in some places measures only around 1,000 feet (300 meters) across while the walls rise more than 2,000 feet (610 meters).

The area was designated a national monument in 1933 to preserve the geological features of the gorge. Congress elevated it to national park status in 1999.

The name refers to the black, wet walls of gneiss and schist that remain in shadow for most of the day due to the narrow shape of the gorge. Visitors often follow short trails to overlooks that let them peer down into the depths from above.

South Rim remains open all year with paved roads and a visitor center, while North Rim operates seasonally and requires travel on unpaved roads. Short hikes to overlooks need little preparation, but trails descending to the river are very steep and suited only for experienced hikers.

The walls receive only about 30 minutes of sunlight per day in some sections due to the depth and narrow opening of the gorge. This darkness makes it one of the best places in North America to observe stars even during daylight hours.

Location: Montrose County

Inception: March 2, 1933

Operator: National Park Service

Website: https://nps.gov/blca

GPS coordinates: 38.56667,-107.71667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:56