Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Activities
- Bird Highlights
- Camping in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison
- Flora & Fauna in the Park
- Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
- Gunnison Regulations & Safety
- Gunnison Tunnel
- Hiking Trails in the Gunnison
- History of Black Canyon of the Gunnison
- Horse Procedures in the Park
- Just For Kids
- Mule Deer
- Planning Your Visit
- Rock Climbing
- Visitor Information for the Gunnison
- Walking & Hiking the Gunnison
- Welcome to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison
- Who's Who in the Park
- Animals
- Camping
- Geology
- History
- In A Nutshell
- Just For Kids
- Natural World
- Park Regulations & Safety
- Preservation
- Sights to See
- Things To Do
- Walking & Hiking
- Winter Activities
- Black Canyon Map
- Black Canyon Photos
- Recent Black Canyon News
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison's unique and spectacular landscape was formed slowly by the action of water and rock abrading down through hard Proterozoic crystalline rock. No other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths offered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. With a plethora of recreational activities, including hiking and ranger guided programs, there are many ways to experience Black Canyon.
IN DEPTH
Geology Vernal Mesa Quartz Monzonite The term "Vernal Mesa Quartz Monzonite" was coined by J. F. Hunter in 1925 during his research in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The steepness...read more
Sights to See Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit At the mouth of Cimarron Creek, just upstream from where it spills into the Gunnison River, stands a reminder of bygone days in railroading. Locomotive #278,...read more
Camping Camping NORTH RIM CAMPGROUND Open from Spring to Fall 13 sites in Pinyon-Juniper forest with vault toilets, tables and grills. Water is available mid-May to mid-October. No hook-ups. Vehicles greater than 35...read more
History History & Culture The canyon has been a mighty barrier to humans. Only its rims, never the gorge, show evidence of human occupation - not even by Ute Indians living...read more
Preservation Support Your Park Western National Parks Association (WNPA) is a non-profit membership organization authorized by Congress to aid and promote educational and scientific activities within more than 70 park sites...read more
Just For Kids Ninth-Twelfth Grades Black Canyon-ology (Field Trip) Join our rangers as we explore the geology and history of the Black Canyon. This field trip can be offered on either the North or...read more
Park Regulations & Safety Pets In the Park In Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, pets on leash may be walked on roads, in campgrounds, to the overlooks, and are allowed...read more
Walking & Hiking Hiking Trails Many trails pass by steep dropoffs, so be cautious and keep a close watch on children. Hikers should be aware that limited cattle grazing is permitted on the North...read more
Winter Activities Winter Activities Cross Country Skiing The South Rim Drive is not plowed during the winter months, allowing the road to become a ski trail. The drive is 6 miles (one...read more
Things To Do Rafting Due to the technical nature and numerous difficult portages, the Gunnison River through Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is not raftable. Rafting opportunities are available in the Gunnison...read more
PARK PHOTOS
Canyon Walls
BenC
Gunnison River
Sharon D
Visitor View
Linda Armstrong
RECENT NEWS
- Black Canyon Celebrates 10th Anniversary as National Park October 21, 2009
- ‘A river runs through’: Black Canyon National Park hosts celebration of park and Gunnison Gorge NCA formation October 12, 2009
- Prescribed Burn Planned at Black Canyon National Park May 1, 2009
- Snowshoe Walks, Winter Night Sky Programs Set at Black Canyon National Park January 28, 2009
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