Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Overview

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers stunning views of the steep, narrow canyon carved by the Gunnison River. It's known for its dramatic landscapes and excellent hiking trails.

The canyon offers some of the steepest cliffs and oldest rock in the country, providing a unique geological experience.

Outdoor Recreation Nature

Location

Address

Curecanti National Recreation Area, Montrose, Colorado

Neighborhood: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Coordinates

38.478900, -107.684500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25 per vehicle

Children

Free (under 15)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

1-2 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

hot

• extended daylight
• hiking trails

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• harvest moon

winter

cold

• snowy landscapes
• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check trail conditions
Bring plenty of water
Wear sturdy shoes

What to Bring

essential

water hiking shoes sun protection

seasonal

warm layers rain jacket sunscreen

not allowed

drones without permit pets on certain trails

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• steep trails
• high elevation

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $25 per vehicle

parking $10

guided tours $30-$50

food $10-$20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, hiking shoes, layers, sturdy, comfortable shoes, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for guided tours
• official website
• 48 hours
• available for popular trails

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail guides, Park information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Camping areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, camping areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Montrose Regional Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$40 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$1.50 20 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique geological features, peaceful environment

Historical Significance: Ancient geological formations, Native American history

Insider Tips

Less crowded on weekdays
Best views from South Rim

Local Recommendations

• Visit the Gunnison River
• Try the local cafes in Montrose

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

help Help

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

South Rim Viewpoints

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Stunning canyon views

#BlackCanyon #GunnisonRiver #ColoradoAdventures

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas inside visitor center

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy permit required

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Montrose County Historical Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Uncompahgre National Forest

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours

Type: National Forest

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit South Rim for best views"
"Bring plenty of water"
"Start early for fewer crowds"

Contact Information

+1-970-641-2335

info@nps.gov

www.nps.gov/blca

Social Media

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