Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is known for its steep, narrow gorge, dark canyon walls, and the Gunnison River cutting through ancient rock far below the rim. We explored it from both elevations. South Rim Drive gave us the classic overlooks across the canyon and the recently burned rim country. East Portal Road then dropped sharply to the canyon floor, where we followed the rocky Gunnison River shoreline.
Pick a stop to see its story and photos.
South Rim Drive follows the canyon edge for seven miles, with short walks to viewpoints over nearly vertical walls and the Gunnison River far below. Much of the rim still showed damage from the July 2025 South Rim Fire.
East Portal Road descends steep grades and tight curves from the south rim to the Gunnison River. At the bottom, we followed an unsigned primitive route along the rocky bank to calmer water reflecting the canyon walls.
South Rim Drive follows the canyon edge for seven miles, with short walks to viewpoints over nearly vertical walls and the Gunnison River far below. Much of the rim still showed damage from the July 2025 South Rim Fire.
East Portal Road descends steep grades and tight curves from the south rim to the Gunnison River. At the bottom, we followed an unsigned primitive route along the rocky bank to calmer water reflecting the canyon walls.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a dramatic place. Sweeping black, jagged walls plunge nearly…
