Best things to do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Beautiful Alpine Lake in Colorado
Image credit: Paul Brady

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is famous for its dramatic and steep cliffs, which rise up to 2,700 feet from the Gunnison River. The park is also known for its abundant wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and black bear.

The best things to do in the park include hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. There are also numerous scenic viewpoints and ranger-led programs.

Other top tourist attractions in the park include the Gunnison River Gorge, the Crystal Mill, and the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway.

1. Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

A visitor's experience when they visit Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will be filled with awe and wonder. The area's dramatic cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and lush vegetation will captivate them, while the natural history exhibits will educate them on the area's ecology.

2. Curecanti National Recreation Area

A visitor's experience when they Curecanti National Recreation Area in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park would be one of awe. The landscapes are absolutely stunning, with towering cliffs and rushing waterfalls. The visitor would feel a sense of peace and serenity while walking among the natural wonders.

3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

A visitor's experience when they visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is filled with awe. The park is a beautiful and secluded place that is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The canyon walls are steep and the colors are vibrant, making for stunning photos.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

When a visitor visits the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, they will be awestruck by the vastness of the landscape. The dunes are a beautiful, natural wonder and the visitor will feel the sand on their feet. The visitor will also enjoy the view of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park from the dunes.

5. Mesa Verde National Park

When someone visits Mesa Verde National Park, they may be awestruck by the vastness of the landscape and the sheer number of cliff dwellings. They may also be impressed by the ancient rock art and the sheer size of the Park. Visitors may feel a sense of peace and solitude while hiking through the Park.

6. Hovenweep National Monument

When someone visits Hovenweep National Monument, they are likely to be awestruck by the natural beauty of the monument. The red sandstone cliffs, mesas, and canyons are a stunning sight, and the visitors will likely feel a sense of awe while walking through the monument.

7. Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

A visitor's experience at the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park would be one of awe. The natural beauty of the canyons and the ancient cliff dwellings would be breathtaking, and the visitor would be able to explore the monument's sites freely.

8. Chimney Rock National Monument

When visiting Chimney Rock National Monument, visitors would be awestruck by the natural beauty of the Monument. The towering rock formations are a sight to behold and would be a great place to take pictures. The Monument is also a great place to hike, as there are many trails that wind through the area.

9. Yucca House National Monument

When someone visits Yucca House National Monument, they are likely to experience awe at the natural beauty of the area. The monument is located in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, which is known for its dramatic canyons and steep-sided mountains. Visitors will likely enjoy exploring the monument's trails and learning about the monument's history.