Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
The park is located approximately 250 miles SW of Denver
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a fantastic place for climbing some of the world’s foremost wild canyons. Although there is some wild outdoor adventure available in kayaking the Gunnison , it’s not for a novice! You’ll also find geological beauty and hiking/backpacking trips that although they are physically challenging, are well worth taking for the adventure vacation of a lifetime. Come and see what’s been drawing adventure seekers for almost a hundred years to this unique national park. Check out below for great Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park information at http://www.nps.gov/blca.
Uniqueness
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the world’s foremost wild canyons . It’s unique and spectacular landscape was formed slowly by the action of water and rock scouring down through hard Proterozoic crystalline rock. No other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths offered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison . Its average depth is about 2,000 feet, ranging from a maximum of 3,000 feet at the west boundary to about 1,725 feet at The Narrows. In places the canyon is 1½ times deeper than wide. Painted Wall in the canyon is the highest cliff in Colorado at 2,250 feet. As you look into the canyon’s depths you become aware of its savage beauty. It is incredibly deep and sheer, with plunging cliffs, soaring buttresses and a thundering river. Prepare yourself for 2,000 ft, narrow canyon walls dropping almost vertically to the Gunnison River . Many of the overlooks are easily accessed by car and very short walks. Accessible overlooks at South Rim are Tomichi Point, Chasm View , and Sunset View . North Rim has an accessible overlook- Balanced Rock .
The majority of wilderness use occurs on developed trails on the canyon rim. Use in the inner canyon is limited because of the steep terrain and lack of developed trails. Six routes access the Gunnison River , three on the north rim and three on the south rim. Those who venture into the canyon are required to complete a wilderness use permit . Inner canyon visitors consist of those who enjoy hiking, climbing, kayaking and fishing . In recent years the Park has seen a significant increase in the number of all types of backcountry use. It is anticipated that wilderness use will continue to increase as the canyon has a Gold Medal trout fishery, world class big-wall rock climbing, and Class V whitewater . Other adventure vacation ideas found in the park include backpacking, bird watching, camping, cross country skiing, horseback riding, interpretive programs, nature walks, snowshoeing, stargazing, wilderness adventure, and wildlife viewing.
Walking along the Rim Rock Trail in the morning not only gives you a chance to be among the stony cliffs, but it allows you to hear the chirping sounds of a songbird. Lingering at the troubled twists of rock at Cross Fissures Overlook offers you the chance to witness a soaring Red-tailed hawk and its screeching cry resonating from cliff to crag. During your visit, take in a trail sheltered by the oak brush, or sit along the river at East Portal and listen to the rush and roar of the river. A captivating world of sound exists at Black Canyon and all national parks. Some areas stir with orchestrations of birdsongs. Others remain so quiet you can hear your heart beat. Discover that complete park experiences feature both sights and sounds.
Though people had been coming to Black Canyon for picnicking and fishing trips for years, the first person who came to the canyon for a lengthy recreational trip was Ellsworth Kolb . Born in Pennsylvania , he and his brother Emory owned a photograph studio on the rim of Grand Canyon . They had become well known for their photo services and especially for their adventures down the Colorado in Grand Canyon . By 1916, Ellsworth struck out on his own to “shoot the rapids” and bring publicity to other rivers in the west. He was probably the most determined of the historic adventurers to take on the Black Canyon . After many attempts and near disaster, he finally made it down the entire canyon. National parks can offer challenges to the human spirit, and like earlier explorers, Kolb found the Black Canyon to be full of barriers. Even today, those venturing into the canyon will realize obstacles that they must overcome. Yet, that is why so many enjoy and are drawn to adventure travel or adventure vacations.
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