Explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Looking for the best resources to help plan your visit to Black Canyon of the Gunnison?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to this underrated national park in Colorado.

From nearby camping suggestions to how to spend your time, you’ll find it all here.

I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison at a glance

  • Covers 30,000 acres

  • Located near Montrose, Colorado

  • Colorado’s least visited national park

  • Best known for its narrow canyon

  • Has hiking, scenic overlooks, and campgrounds

Complete Itineraries

All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.

1 Day in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Itinerary

Camping

While Bryce Canyon National Park does have campgrounds inside the property, we enjoyed staying at the nearby Ridgway State Park

Doing so allowed us to get full hook-ups for our camper for a very reasonable price, and put us within easy driving distance of everything this area has to offer.

Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground at Ridgway State Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Must Haves

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the self-guided audio tour for Black Canyon of the Gunnison to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    Explore the park on foot, but be sure to bring the right gear for everyone in your family!

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting in the summer.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to any of the Colorado national parks without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    This area of Colorado doesn’t always have great cell reception, but you can always reach help with this unit.

  • Rental Car

    There isn’t any public transportation in or to Black Canyon of the Gunnison, so you will need to have a rental car for the duration of your visit.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports.

  • Travel Insurance

    Visiting the national parks can be the trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.

    Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.

Other Things to Do nearby

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  • Epic Denver to Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

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  • Best Things to Do at Ridgway State Park

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