Black Canyon, Gunnison
 

The Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park 

(Pictures to be added soon)

The Black Canyon is a quiet tourist attraction. There is one gift shop at the entrance, but don't expect to get any food or drink while you visit Black Canyon.  

The Canyon itself is just stunning. Most people travel along the south rim, stopping at the many viewing points. We wanted a hike so, acting on the advice of a lady in the gift shop at the entrance, we drove right to the end of the South Rim at High Point. Here we parked, and walked three quarters of a mile to Warner Point. This is a beautiful walk with views all around into different parts of the canyon, with mountains in the far distance.

When you get to the end of the trail, you can see a rocky peak 30 yards ahead of you; you have not finished yet! Climb down to the left, scrabble round and you can ascend this very peak for a fantastic, view down on all sides. Passing rangers told us that many visitors do not realize this last leg of the journey is there; it is very well worth taking it for the exhilarating views.

Driving back slowly along the South Rim there are a dozen stopping points each with slightly different overlooks to the valleys and river below. The views are stunning from Devil's Lookout, Pulpit Overlook, Tomichi Point, Gunnison Point, and so on.

Arriving back at the entrance gate, you can then carry out the second part of the trip; the East Portal Road. This road winds down and down – first gear is necessary along long portions. This is a very steep road which is closed in winter. You corkscrew down, closer and closer to the canyon bottom, enjoying wonderful views on the way down and finally winding your way down to the river itself.

At the bottom is a campground which would make a stunning pitching location. Lush trees grow alongside the river, giving a beautiful, unique and relaxing location.

I suppose it's a little like hiking the five miles to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of Grand Canyon – but being able to drive there in half an hour! Once at the bottom, the feeling of being in an oasis is similar.

The river road at the bottom takes you along a pretty road a mile or so until you reach Gunnison Diversion Dam, which has been built at the end. This is not open to the public.

The Black Canyon of Gunnisonn National Park is a beautiful park to visit with stunning views. It is highly recommended to visit.

The Black Canyon is not black, in fact. I really thought it was going to be cut into black rock; it wasn't, being named after what it looked like in certain lightings.