Welcome to the Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Colorado Tour
Marvel at the awe-inspiring depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison in Colorado with this self-guided driving tour. This drive features stunning views along the canyon’s south rim, from Gunnison Point to Chasm View and the breathtaking Painted Wall. Along the way, you’ll discover how the canyon formed and hear dramatic tales of those who have tried and failed to navigate its tumultuous waters over the years.
About the Tour
Your journey to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison begins just off Highway 50, near the Black Canyon Country Store. From there, you’ll drive north toward the park and learn about the ancient sea which once covered this landscape, as well as the pygmy forests you’ll see during your journey. And don’t forget to snap a selfie at the National Park Sign!
You’ll get your first good look at the canyon at Tomichi Point, then continue on to the South Rim Visitor Center and the famous Gunnison Point, a breathtaking overlook that offers one of the most iconic canyon views.
As you drive alongside the canyon, next, you’ll hear dramatic tales of those who tried to tame its roaring river. Get the blow by blow of each ill-fated expedition and find out why they all went wrong. Then stop at Pulpit Rock Overlook for a great view of the river itself.
Continue to Cross Fissures View, where striking rock formations tell tales of the earth’s tumultuous movements. Nearby, Rock Point and Devils Lookout offer more dramatic vistas, perfect for photography.
Then you’ll reach the Painted Wall, the canyon’s tallest cliff, vividly streaked with pegmatite. It’s the canyon’s most famous wall for a good reason!
Catch some sunset views at the appropriately named Sunset View, then continue on to the trailhead for the Warner Point Nature Trail. Whether or not you decide to hike this magnificent canyonside trail, your tour concludes here.
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
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Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Map
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: 13972 CO-347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The park is famous for its dramatic and incredibly steep-walled canyon carved by the Gunnison River. It boasts impressive depths, sheer cliffs, and stunning dark rock formations.
The most common way is by car. The South Rim is about a 15-minute drive east of Montrose via US Highway 50 and State Highway 347. The North Rim is accessed via a winding, unpaved road (County Road 90) off of Highway 92, and it takes about an hour and 15 minutes from Crawford.
Popular overlooks include:
- Tomichi Point: The first overlook with great views.
- Painted Wall View: Offers a fantastic view of the canyon’s most striking painted rock formations.
- Cedar Point Nature Trail: Leads to overlooks with views of the inner canyon and the Gunnison River.
- Dragon Point and Gunnison Point: Located near the visitor center with excellent panoramic views.
Both rims offer unique perspectives. The South Rim is open year-round and has more facilities, including the visitor center, overlooks, and campgrounds. The North Rim is more remote, offers a different angle of the canyon, and has fewer facilities; it’s typically open from late spring to mid-fall.
Pets are allowed in developed areas, on roads, and in campgrounds, but they must be kept on a leash. They are not permitted on trails or in the inner canyon.
The South Rim is open year-round, but services are limited in the off-season. The North Rim is typically open from late spring to mid-fall, depending on snow conditions. The East Portal Road is also subject to seasonal closures. For more information visit National Park Services’s official website.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
