Welcome to Black Canyon of the GunnisonBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains in west-central Colorado. It exposes some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. It was established as a national monument on March 2, 1933 and redesignated as a national park on October 21, 1999. The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Some roads into the park are limited access or closed entirely in winter. The park is divided by the canyon into a North Rim and South Rim. There is no bridge or road through the park or connecting the rims. Both rim drives have one access point from the highway, and dead-end within the park. Driving from one rim to the other involves driving along non-park roads and can take 2+ hours. 
NPS/Zach Schierl 
Operating Hours & Seasons
Find out seasonal openings and visitor center hours. 
Current Conditions
Current conditions vary as fall turns to winter. Check park alerts for updates. 
Fees & Passes
Learn about the fees and passes that are available. 
Weather
See the weather forecast and typical climate for the park throughout the seasons. 
Visiting with Pets
Know where you and your pet are allowed to go in the park. 
Places to Go
Visit one of the canyon rims, drive down to the river level, or challenge yourself to experience the inner canyon. 
Things to Do
Make the most of your visit by planning your activities and experiences in advance. |
Last updated: November 26, 2025