Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of Colorado’s last hidden gems. The national park sits outside Montrose, Colorado, in the lesser-known southwestern corner of the state. The five-hour drive from Denver deters most tourists, who head to Rocky Mountain National Park instead — a park that saw 4.2 million visitors in 2022, while Black Canyon had just 297,257. Moreover, the park boasts natural wonders that can wow even the most skeptical. The park is marked by 2,700-foot cliffs that plunge to the Gunnison River, as well as hiking trails that wind along the canyon rim.

“It is a gem, one of the steepest, deepest, and narrowest combined canyons in the country. It’s a small park with a big view! The canyon is dramatic with easily accessible views into the abyss,” said Lori Rome, chief of interpretation and public information for the park, in an email interview with iBestTravel. She is supported by Mt. Sobek specialist and national park expert Mike Augustine, who commented, “What makes the canyon unique and beautiful is that it is narrower than other canyons (like Grand Canyon National Park). Because of this, it’s more like a giant chasm, and it somehow manages to feel deeper than the Grand Canyon.”

Like the Grand Canyon, the Black Canyon has two main areas: the more popular and easy-to-access South Rim and the quiet and remote North Rim. There is no bridge connecting the two canyon sides, therefore visitors who want to explore both parts of the park need to account for two to three hours of drive time to make the trip.

Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Where to Stay Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

There are no hotels inside the park; however, campers and RVers will find two campgrounds — one on each rim of the canyon — as well as a campground at the bottom of the canyon that sits within the neighboring Curecanti National Recreation Area but is accessed via the park.

The most accessible of the three is the South Rim Campground, which is located one mile from the South Rim Visitor Center and has 88 campsites, including 23 with electric hookups. The North Rim Campground is more remote, with 13 campsites and no hookups. East Portal Campground — located within Curecanti National Recreation Area but accessible solely via Black Canyon — has 15 hookup-free campsites.

If camping under the stars isn’t appealing — even though Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has been an International Dark Sky Park since 2015 — you’ll find several hotels in Montrose, Colorado, the closest community to the park. Augustine suggests the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, which is an easy 20-minute drive from the park and has all the overnight essentials — free parking, an indoor pool, and a gym.

The Canyon Creek Bed & Breakfast in historic downtown Montrose is another option. This family-operated bed-and-breakfast is set in a home owned by a local resident. The B&B is just 15 minutes from the park and boasts a garden hot tub, daily breakfast, and nightly wine.

Best Things to Do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

South Rim Road

According to Rome, “driving the South Rim Drive and stopping at the viewpoints is the primary activity at Black Canyon.” The drive itself is short, at seven miles, but there are 12 viewpoints along the way, many of which require a brief hike. If you’re short on time, don’t miss the big four: Gunnison Point, Chasm View, Painted Wall, and Sunset View.

Warner Point Nature Trail

Both Rome and Augustine highly recommend hiking the Warner Point Nature Trail. This moderate route is a great way to connect with the South Rim, providing varied views from glimpses into the canyon to sprawling vistas of the San Juan Mountains.

“At the end of the South Rim Road, you’ll find the final viewpoint called High Point, where you can discover the trailhead for Warner Point Nature Trail. It’s a moderate 1.5-mile hike that rewards you with stunning views of the canyon; it’s absolutely worth the effort,” said Augustine.

East Portal Road

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is managed alongside the neighboring Curecanti National Recreation Area, known for its ample water activities. One of Augustine’s top picks is driving the East Portal Road, which is quite steep and ends at the river at the bottom of the canyon.

“You get a much different perspective of the canyon from down below as you peer up, and it’s a perfect place to relax with a picnic before heading back to Montrose. I would expect to spend around 5-7 hours or so with this visit, depending on how much hiking you opt to do,” explained Augustine.

Best Restaurants Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

There are no restaurants inside the park; therefore, if you’re planning to be in the park over mealtime, you’ll want to pack a picnic. (You can find hiking snacks in the bookstore at the South Rim Visitor Center.)

Once you exit the park, head to Montrose for the best selection of dining options.

Bluecorn Cafe & Mercantile

This breakfast and lunch spot serves coffee and cocktails alongside a selection of locally sourced soups, salads, and sandwiches, including the popular breakfast sandwich. The best part? You can enjoy your meal while watching people dip candles at their adjacent candle factory and shop in the gift store.

Colorado Boy Pizzeria & Brewery

Colorado Boy is a staple in this part of Colorado. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas are complemented by their award-winning craft beer. This popular restaurant, which began in the neighboring town of Ridgway, also offers a great selection of salads and sandwiches.

Camp Robber

When the owners of Camp Robber moved to Colorado from New Mexico, they brought their Southwestern cooking style with them. Since opening in 1994, they’ve developed a loyal following of locals and repeat visitors who come for a slightly upscale dining experience focused on quality meals.

Tacos & Beer Montrose

There are several great Mexican restaurants in Montrose, but one of the best is Tacos & Beer. This casual restaurant on the south end of town has a fantastic taco menu and outdoor seating.

Backstreet Bagel Company

The original goal of Backstreet Bagel was to bring genuine East Coast-style bagels to the Colorado mountains, and over 25 years later, they’ve become the go-to spot for locals in search of breakfast and lunch — best served on a fresh bagel.

Best Time To Visit

The optimal time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is in early fall when Rome notes that “the crowds are starting to diminish, the temperature is usually pleasant, and the Gambel Oak trees turn fall colors.” Augustine concurs, stating that “my favorite season to visit the park is after Labor Day, in mid-September, as it is much less crowded and the temperatures are still warm, perfect for hiking.”

However, Augustine points out that afternoons in early fall can be rainy, so he suggests, “having an early start to the day, and then leaving the park in the afternoon.”

How to Get There

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is relatively remote, which is part of what makes it such a special destination. The South Rim entrance serves as the primary entry point, but those seeking trails free of crowds should also consider visiting the North Rim.

The South Rim is just over five hours from Denver; however, the drive — especially if you take the slightly longer and less-traveled U.S. 285 route — passes over and around some of Colorado’s most beautiful mountain ranges.

If possible, flying into Montrose (MTJ) will reduce your drive to just 20 minutes. The larger Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) in Grand Junction, Colorado, is 1.5 hours from the park.

How to Get Around

You’ll require a car to visit the park, so if you aren’t driving your own vehicle, budget for a rental car. Reliable local ride services are available; we recommend TelluRides. Nonetheless, if you want to visit the park several days and explore the surroundings, renting a car is undoubtedly the way to go.

Traveling between the main South Rim side and the remote North Rim involves a two or three-hour drive, some of which is on rough dirt roads. Keep in mind that the North Rim is closed to vehicles during the winter.