Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Weather can vary greatly between the canyon rim and canyon floor. Summer daytime temperatures range between 60° to 100°F (15° to 38°C), nights 30° to 50°F (-1° to 10°C) Winter daytime temperatures range between 20° to 40°F (-6° to 4°C), nights -10° to 20°F (-23° to -6°C)

Precipitation is minimal, brief afternoon thunderstorms occur during the summer.

South Rim: Open every day. The South Rim Road is open to vehicles from early April to mid-November. In winter, the South Rim Road is open to Gunnison Point. The remainder of the road is closed to vehicles, but open to cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

North Rim: North Rim Road and ranger station are closed in winter. The road typically closes late November and reopens mid-April.

North Rim Ranger Station is open intermittently during the summer and closed the rest of the year.

The entrance fee is $15.00 per vehicle at the South Rim entrance station and the North Rim ranger station of Black Canyon.

Prepare yourself for 2,000 foot tall, narrow canyon walls dropping almost vertically to the Gunnison River.

The Black Canyon is known for crumbling rock, dizzying heights, and a lack of places to place protective equipment. Rock climbing is a challenge limited to highly experienced, expert climbers only.

North Rim Campground
Open from Spring to Fall
13 sites in Pinyon-Juniper forest with vault toilets, tables and grills. Water is available mid-May to mid-October. No hook-ups. Vehicles greater than 35 feet are not recommended. Maximum 8 persons and 2 vehicles per site. Occasionally fills during summer months. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations) and have a maximum 14 consecutive day stay in a 30 day period.

Fee: $12.00 per night ($6.00 per night with Interagency Senior/Access)

South Rim Campground
Loop A - open year round.
Loops B & C - open Spring to Fall
88 sites in oak-brush forest with vault toilets, tables and grills. Water is available mid-May to mid-October. 30 amp electrical hookups are available in Loop B only. All sites have a maximum 14 consecutive day stay in a 30 day period. Vehicles greater than 35 feet are not recommended. Maximum of 8 persons and 2 vehicles per site.

Fees:
Loop A - $12.00 per night plus $3.00 per night if reserved ($6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass plus $3.00 per night if reserved)
Loop B (electric hookups) - $18.00 per night plus $3.00 per night if reserved ($12.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass plus $3.00 per night if reserved)
Loop C - $12.00 per night ($6.00 per night with Interagency Senior/Access)

Reservations may be made for South Rim Loops A and B only, and must be made at least 3 days in advance.

Please conserve water, it must be trucked in. Firewood is not provided at either campground and may not be gathered.

Hiking Trails

Many trails pass by steep dropoffs, so be cautious and keep a close watch on children.

Hikers should be aware that limited cattle grazing is permitted on the North Rim. Please keep cattle gates closed should you encounter them.

South Rim

Rim Rock Nature Trail
Moderate - 1 mile round trip
As its name implies, this self-guided nature trail takes you along a relatively flat path following the rim of the canyon. Along this sunny route you will encounter a variety of plant life from sagebrush and Gambel oak to pinyon pine and Utah juniper. This trail allows many excellent views of the Gunnison River as well as the sheer walls of the canyon.

The trailhead is near the entrance to Campground Loop C and ends at the Tomichi Point Overlook.

Oak Flat Loop Trail
Strenuous - 2 miles round trip
The Oak Flat Loop Trail (built by Student Conservation Association volunteers) offers variety to the hiker who would like to explore below the rim without taking on the challenge of hiking to the river. Parents should be aware that the trail is narrow in places and traverses some steep slopes.

The trail begins near the Visitor Center. Go a short distance to the Oak Flat Loop/River Access sign and follow the trail which leads right. Descend through a grove of aspen to another signed junction. Turn left here to continue on the Oak Flat Loop. The trail meanders through a thicket of oak scrub (Gambel oak) passing near a rock outcrop, a pleasant location where you can relax and enjoy the view. The trail then heads west where it begins its ascent through a forest of Douglas fir, Aspen, and Gambel oak. On the return leg one encounters another unmarked overlook offering spectacular views downstream. Pets are not allowed.

Cedar Point Nature Trail
Easy - 2/3 mile round trip
An excellent place for one to brush up on the local flora, this short, sunny, moderately sloped trail offers guideposts describing the various plants along the way. At the end are two overlooks offering breathtaking views of the river over 2,000 feet below. Also visible is the famous Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado (2,250 ft.), as well as rock islands jutting up from the depths of the canyon.

Warner Point Nature Trail
Moderate - 1.5 miles round trip
You can pick up a trail guide at the High Point Overlook or the South Rim Visitor Center. Along this trail you will find shady benches which allow you to rest among mountain mahogany, serviceberry, pinyon pine, and juniper. Looking south you can see the San Juan Mountain Range, Uncompahgre Valley, and Bostwick Park. To the north look for the West Elk Mountains, and at the end of the trail enjoy the views of the Gunnison River and the Black Canyon. Pets are not allowed.

North Rim

Chasm View Nature Trail
Moderate - 1/3 mile round trip
This trail is located at the end of the one-way campground loop. After a short distance, the trail breaks out of the pinyon/juniper forest at the North Chasm View, some 1800 feet above the river. Continuing near the rim, the trail reaches a second overlook with excellent views of Painted Wall and Serpent Point. Keep a lookout for swifts, swallows and raptors frequently seen from this overlook. The people you can see on the far side, at Chasm View overlook are only 1,100 feet away.

North Vista Trail
Moderate to Exclamation Point - 3 miles round trip
Strenuous to Green Mountain - 7 miles round trip
Constructed by volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, the North Vista Trail offers some of the best scenic views and birding in the Park.

Start this trail at the North Rim Ranger Station. After passing through an area of sage and oak brush, the trail meanders in a pinyon/juniper forest along the canyon’s rim. Several overlooks offer views of SOB draw and the inner canyon. At Exclamation Point some of the best inner-canyon views can be found. Those continuing to Green Mountain will be rewarded by panoramic vistas, including the San Juan Mountains, the West Elks, Grand Mesa, the Uncompahgre Plateau, and an aerial perspective of the Black Canyon.

Deadhorse Trail
Easy to moderate - 5 miles round trip
This trail offers good views of Deadhorse gulch and East Portal on the Gunnison River, as well as good birding.

Park at the Kneeling Camel Overlook and walk a few yards east to a spur road that leads to the old Ranger Station. The trail, actually an old service road, begins here. After 3/4 of a mile the road passes a stock pond. This pond is fed by one of the few springs found on the rim of the Black Canyon. Continue on another 1 1/2 mile until you encounter a stock fence. Turn right (south) here and walk 1/4 mile along the fence until you come to the canyon’s rim. Deadhorse Gulch is the large side drainage located just east of the overlook (and the fence).

Hiking the Inner Canyon

There are no maintained or marked trails into the inner canyon. Routes are difficult to follow, and only individuals in excellent physical condition should attempt these hikes.

Hikers are expected to find their own way and to be prepared for self-rescue. While descending, study the route behind, as this will make it easier on the way up when confronted with a choice of routes and drainages. Not all ravines go all the way to the river, and becoming "cliffed out" is a real possibility.

Poison ivy is nearly impossible to avoid, and can be found growing 5 feet tall along the river. Pets are not allowed in the wilderness. Inner canyon routes are not meant for small children.

Basic Necessities
The hike into the canyon and back up is very strenuous. Bring high energy foods and at least 4 quarts of water per person per day. Giardia is in all water sources, including the river, therefore all water must be purified. Sturdy hiking boots are an absolute must due to the unstable terrain covered in loose talus and scree. Leave your sandals and low cut running shoes in the car. Always pack in rain gear, afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Walking Along the River
The mileages listed as “River Access” are the maximum distance available to a hiker along the river at low water levels (300-350 cubic feet per second). Wading in the cold river (50F) is hazardous and not recommended, and at levels above 450-500 CFS the combination of high, swift water and cold temperatures increases the danger. Rocks along the shore can be moss encrusted and very slick. Many individuals have been swept to their death in the Gunnison River.

Why can't I have a campfire?
Dams upstream prevent a natural flow and cycle of driftwood entering the lower canyon. What little organic debris makes its way through the canyon is a vital resource for the recycling of nutrients back into the riverbank and the earth. If you see an old fire ring, please don't be tempted to use it. Bring a small gas stove for cooking in the inner canyon.

Wilderness Use Permits
Permits, required for all inner canyon activities (including day hikes, climbing, camping and kayaking), are free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
More information »

The Routes in Winter
The winter wilderness brings new challenges. Exploration of the backcountry during the winter is at your own risk. Winter hikers attempting the inner canyon routes should be prepared with snowshoes, crampons, an ice axe, and possibly a rope.

Most of the South Rim routes are snow covered from November to April. North Rim routes can be snow free as early as February. Water is not available at either rim during the winter months, so bring your own.

Wilderness Regulations

* Wilderness Use permits are required.
* Wood fires are prohibited. Use camp stoves only.
* No pets.
* A valid Colorado Fishing license is required, and Gold Medal Water regulations apply - artificial lures only; possession limit for brown trout is 4, of which only 1 fish may equal or exceed 16” in length; all fish between 12” and 16” must be released. Rainbows are catch and release only.
* Possession of firearms is prohibited. No hunting.
* Collecting wood, flowers, plants, animals and rocks is prohibited.
* Bury all human waste in 6” deep holes at least 100 feet from the river. If pit toilets are available, please use them.
* Pack out all trash, including toilet paper.

Leave No Trace Ethics

* Plan ahead and prepare. Make sure all the members of your group have the skills required to complete the trip.
* Avoid creating trails and campsites.
* Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them.
* To wash yourself or dishes, carry water 200 feet away from the river and use small amounts of biodegradable soap.
* Pick up all spilled food.
* Pack in and pack out everything.
* Protect wildlife by storing food and trash securely.
* Do not collect anything.

North Rim Routes

S.O.B. Draw
This route is suggested for the first time North Rim inner canyon hiker. S.O.B. Draw is famous for its abundant poison ivy. Long pants are recommended. Park vehicles in the pull through near the campground registration board, or at the North Rim Ranger Station.

The route begins at the access ladder along the fence line just east of the campground. This is on the right side of the road when traveling from the ranger station to the campground. Follow the path to the top of the drainage gully and descend on the far right of the route. The route has short ledges to climb (8-12 ft/3 m). Campsites are located downstream a short distance.

Descent: 2 hours
Distance: 1.75 miles (2.8 km)
Vertical Drop: 1800 feet (549 m)
Ascent: 3 hours
River Access: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Campsites: 6

Long Draw
Formerly called Devil's Slide, Long Draw brings the hiker into one of the narrowest parts of the canyon where canyon walls tower above the swiftly moving Gunnison River.

Park at Balanced Rock Overlook, then walk northeast to the bend in the road. The descent begins at the road. Pass through a small area of box elder trees at the rim and scramble down the gully to the river. There is plenty of poison ivy along the bottom of this route. The route has short ledges to climb (8-12 ft/3 m).

Descent: 1.5 hours
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Vertical Drop: 1800 feet (549 m)
Ascent: 3 hours
River Access: .25 mile (402 m)
Campsites: 1

Slide Draw
This route is extremely steep and the most potentially dangerous due to loose rock and poor footing. Slide Draw requires a 30 foot climb down to start the route. Park at Kneeling Camel View, then walk east until you reach the head of the draw.

Follow the draw to the river, taking extra caution due to the large abundance of loose rocks underfoot. A good camping area is found at the river.

Descent: 1.5 hours
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Vertical Drop: 1620 feet (494 m)
Ascent: 4 hours
River Access: .75 mile (1.2 km)
Campsites: 2

SOUTH RIM ROUTES

Gunnison Route
This is the most popular route, however it is still very strenuous. This route is recommended to persons attempting their first inner-canyon hike. An 80 foot chain is located 1/3 of the way down. This route begins at the South Rim Visitor Center.

Follow the Oak Flat Trail for 1/3 mile, down the first few switchbacks. You will come to a sign that says, "River Access. Permit Required." Continue the steep descent to the chain down the drainage. An outhouse and campsites are located a short distance upstream.

Descent: 1.5 hours
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Vertical Drop: 1800 feet (549 m)
Ascent: 2 hours
River Access: .75 mile (1.2 km)
Campsites: 3

Tomichi Route
This route is considered the steepest South Rim route and is very difficult. The entire length is loose rock and receives full sun exposure. Use extra caution while descending. Use the parking area near the South Rim Campground.

Take the Rim Rock Trail (which starts near Loop C) to post #13. This is the start of the Tomichi Route. Descend the route until the junction with another draw is reached. Continue to follow the main drainage down the slope to the river.

Descent: 1.5 hours
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Vertical Drop: 1960 feet (597 m)
Ascent: 4.5 hours (or triple the descent time) River Access: .5 mile (0.8 km)
Campsites: 2

Warner Route
This is the longest route and overnight travel is highly suggested. Campsites are located up and downstream.

Hike along the Warner Point Nature Trail and walk up the hill past post #13. Look for a large Utah serviceberry bush on the left that is marked with a small silver sign, titled "Serviceberry Bush." This is the start of the Warner Route. The path leads off to the left. Avoid the first drainage and continue west to the lowest saddle on the ridge before descending.

Descent: 2 - 2.5 hours
Distance: 2.75 miles (4.4 km)
Vertical Drop: 2722 feet (829 m)
Ascent: 4 hours
River Access: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Campsites: 5

Red Rock Canyon
Limited access is now available to Red Rock Canyon.
Reservations are required.

East Portal Routes

Devil's Backbone Route
Hike downstream on the south side for about 1/2 mile until you reach the ridge that runs down the cliff. The top 30 feet of this 400 foot scramble is airy and a haul rope can be handy. The bare rock can be slippery with gravel at the top, and you are somewhat exposed to the edge of the cliff. The downstream side is more gentle. You can then hike another mile or more downstream with smaller ridge lines to scramble over.

North River Route
There is a small boat launch at the registration board that provides a good landing for boating across the river for this route. Once across the river you can hike nearly 2 miles down river to the cliff at Flat Rock Rapid. There is only one low ridge to scramble over at Deadhorse Gulch.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a destination that offers vast opportunities to advanced rock climbers.

The canyon is extremely deep and narrow. The depth of the canyon at Warner Point (the deepest section of canyon) is 2,722 ft. The Painted Wall is the tallest vertical wall in the state of Colorado with a height of 2,250 ft. In the area of the North and South Chasm Walls, where the majority of the climbing activity takes place, the depth of the canyon is 1,820 ft. The canyon is at its narrowest point in the Chasm View area, with a rim to rim distance of 1,100 ft.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a full on adventure climbing area. Detailed climbing information for Black Canyon climbs is often difficult to obtain or is non-existent. Black Canyon Rock Climbs by Robbie Williams is currently the most complete guide book on the Black Canyon. The Park Service also retains copies of topos and route information, which have been turned in by first ascent parties. Visit the South Rim Visitor Center or North Rim Ranger Station for information. Visit our Bookstore for guide book information.

Black Canyon is not a place for the beginning climber. Of the one hundred forty five climbs that are either found in Black Canyon Rock Climbs or are known by the Park Service; eight are rated at 5.8, and of these eight only four have good information available and see regular ascents. Twenty-one climbs have a rating of 5.9; five of these are aid routes and only six of them see any significant climbing activity. The other one hundred and seventeen climbs have ratings between 5.10 and 5.13 and many require aid. All of the climbs at the Black Canyon are committing and many climbers have said that the ratings here can be deceiving.

All of the climbs within Black Canyon are multi-pitch traditional routes located in remote areas within the canyon. The National Park Service has rangers trained in high angle rescue, but one should keep in mind that any rescue operation within the park is difficult and requires extended periods of time. Being benighted due to underestimating a route is not cause for rescue at the Black Canyon. Climbers visiting the park should carry the equipment necessary to endure an unexpected bivy.

Peak climbing season at the Black Canyon begins in mid-April and runs through the early part of June and then from mid-September through early November. Environmental hazards found at the park during these time periods include frequent afternoon thunder showers, fully leafed out poison ivy, and approach gullies inhabited by ticks.

Climbers visiting the park should remember:

* Both the North and South Rims have entrance and camping fees.
* A wilderness use permit is required for all inner canyon travel.
* Wood gathering is prohibited.
* Wood fires are not permitted in the inner canyon.
* Pets are allowed in designated areas only, and not in the inner canyon. Do not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle or campsite.
* Practice Leave No Trace while in the canyon. Littering will not be tolerated.

PERMITS
A free wilderness use permit is required for all inner-canyon activities including climbing. Permits help us monitor use of the wilderness, routes and to keep tabs on this great resource. They also help us identify potential emergencies by letting us know your expected itinerary. Climbers are a large user group in the Black and as such the National Park Service makes significant efforts to address climber concerns and ongoing needs.

Filling out a permit only takes a few seconds and doesn't cost a thing. Permits are available at the South Rim Visitor Center or the North Rim Ranger Station. When these facilities are closed, instructions will be posted for self-registration.

In addition to a permit, the North Rim Ranger Station has a whiteboard that is used as an informal way of letting other climbers know who is on what route. It prevents multiple parties from piling up on routes and is a quick way to judge climber activity in the canyon.

The Gunnison River within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is designated as Gold Medal Water & Wild Trout Water. Streams and rivers in Colorado are designated as Gold Medal Waters by the state wildlife commission because they provide outstanding angling opportunities for large trout. The Gold Medal Waters begin 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam and continue to the North Fork of the Gunnison River.

Special regulations are required to maintain gold medal quality experiences. Of the more than 9,000 miles of trout streams in Colorado, only 168 miles are designated as Gold Medal.

Regulations

These regulations apply to the Gunnison River within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and within Curecanti National Recreation Area at East Portal (between the closure at Crystal Dam and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park boundary):

• Use artificial flies or lures only. No bait.
• All Rainbow Trout are catch and release.
• Brown Trout 12-16 inches must be returned to the water immediately.
• Bag and possession limit for Brown Trout is 4 fish, 12 inches or less OR 3 fish less than 12 inches and 1 fish 16 inches or longer.
• A Colorado fishing license is required.
• Fishing is prohibited within 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam.

Wildlife Watching

Black Canyon is a great place to go to observe mammals in their native and wild habitat. Wild animals are an important and vital part of our natural ecosystem. Humans can learn a great deal by carefully observing animals.

Wildlife watching can be extremely enjoyable and rewarding if done with care and by keeping a few watching ethics in mind. To maximize your viewing enjoyment and success:

• familiarize yourself with the birds and mammals of the area
• know what time of day animals are active
• learn about their habitat
• learn wildlife signs such as tracks and scat
• bring binoculars
• wear clothing that blends in with environment
• take a hike or walk and tread quietly
• sit still and watch from behind cover
• leave dogs at home, they often scare wildlife away.

The best way to view and enjoy a wild animal is from a distance with binoculars. When you come across an animal, sit still, watch from behind cover like a shrub or tree, and enjoy!

Use common sense when observing wild animals. Please remember that life in the wild has its own stresses.

• Never disrupt, approach or attempt to feed wild animals. This is dangerous to you and the animal.
• Never approach nesting or denning sites. This could be detrimental to the survival of the young.
• Back off immediately if the animal seems stressed, agitated or angry.
• Respect the space and territory of wildlife.

Wildlife watching is much more enjoyable and successful if we can watch them performing their natural activities like nursing young, playing, fighting, foraging or hunting without their knowledge of our presence. Please enjoy viewing wildlife to the fullest extent but keep respect and consideration for the animals' well being in mind.

Who To Look For
• Look for the Yellow-bellied Marmot, a large rodent who lives and sunbathes on rocky out crops and ledges.
• Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels, Least and Colorado Chipmunks and Mountain Cottontails can be seen just about anywhere in the Black Canyon.
• Also look for the pretty spotted coats of the gray Rock Squirrel.
• Mule Deer can be found throughout the Black Canyon. Look for the spotted fawns in early summer. Be careful driving along U.S. Highway 50 and CO Highways 347 and 92 at dawn and dusk. They frequently cross the road.
• Occasionally seen around Black Canyon are Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep.
• Elk, or Wapiti, are occasionally seen in early fall and winter, look for them in grassy clearings and forested areas. They spend most of their time at higher elevations in summer.
• Coyotes are more often heard than seen. Listen for their pre-dawn songs from either of the campgrounds.
• Skunks, Badgers, Long-tail Weasels and Ringtail Cats are occasionally seen at dusk and dawn along trails, in the inner canyon, along roadsides and in the campgrounds.
• The luckiest of visitors will get a glimpse of the great "ghost of the Rockies". The Mountain Lion may be seen in early morning and evening. This incredibly elusive mammal is occasionally seen slipping off into the oak and juniper forests and across the road. Bobcat and Black Bear are occasionally seen in this manner as well.
• Walking along the trails at Black Canyon, you might cross paths with a Smooth Green Snake or a Great Basin Gopher Snake.
• Also occurring along roadsides, trailside thickets and rock gardens are Garter Snakes and Striped Whipsnakes.
• A variety of Lizards and Salamanders can also be found.

Here are some tips for the unlikely encounter with larger wildlife:

Black Bears
• Do not run.
• Back away slowly.
• Break eye contact.

Mountain Lions
• Do not run.
• Make yourself look bigger.
• Back away slowly.
• If attack seems imminent, act aggressively throwing rocks or a large stick.

Bird Watching

Bird watching in the area is excellent, especially in spring and early summer. Here is just a taste of some of the feathered friends that spend time in the area.

• Look for the fastest bird in the world, the Peregrine Falcon. In spring and early summer look for this amazing bird in the vicinity of the Painted Wall.
• Blue Grouse can be observed in the sagebrush areas. Look for this beautiful bird along roadsides and thickets.
• Look for birds of prey such as the Cooper's Hawk and Red Tailed Hawks.
• Also up above the canyon rims look for Turkey Vultures and Golden Eagles riding thermals.
• Listen to the graceful and unforgettable note of the Canyon Wren in the inner canyon and from Rock Point in the morning.

Deadhorse Trail

The Deadhorse Trail on the North Rim is the only area open to horses or pack animals for day use, recreational riding in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. No permit is required. Horses must be trailered to the trailhead at Kneeling Camel Overlook. Trailers must be parked at this overlook as well.

The Deadhorse Trail is located at the east end of the North Rim road, near the Kneeling Camel Overlook. It is easy to moderate with a round trip distance of 5 miles (8 kilometers). The first part of the trail follows an old service road, which after 3/4-mile (1.2 km) passes a stock pond that is usually dry. Continue on another 1 1/2 mile (2.4 km) until the stock fence and then turn right (south) and ride 1/4 mile (.4 km) along the fence until the canyon's rim. Deadhorse Gulch is reached via the large side drainage located east of the trail's end. Elevation ranges from approximately 8000' (2460 m) to 8200' (2525 m).

There are no facilities at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for horses or pack animals. Horses are only allowed in the North Rim Campground or on the North Rim Road during transport in a trailer. Horses are not allowed on the South Rim.

Horseback riding is also permitted in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area west of the National Park.

General Rules for Horse Use

• Any other use of horses or pack animals is prohibited unless authorized by a grazing use permit approved by the superintendent.
• All hay used for livestock feed or bedding must be certified as weed free in compliance with Montrose or Gunnison County Standards.
• Grazing is prohibited.
• There are no hitching posts available along any trails or at trailheads.
• Picketing, hobbling or tying livestock to natural features, such as trees, bushes or rocks, is prohibited.

  Recommended Procedures

  To help insure a safe, pleasant visit for your horse, yourself and other visitors to this area, please observe the following suggested practices.

  • Stay on the approved, pre-existing trails at all times.
  • Always carry a first aid kit for you and your horse.
  • Carry adequate water for you and your horse. Water may not be available on the trail.
  • Walk your horse. Moving at faster gaits increases trail erosion and endangers hikers.
  • Always alert hikers when you approach them. Ask them to yield the trail. Be prepared to give them instructions on how to behave around your horse. Ask them not to pet or feed your animal. Warn them if your horse kicks or bites.
  • Pass other trail users only when and where it is safe to do so.
  • Do not tie horses to trees, bushes rocks, or other natural features.
  • Clean up after yourself. Pack out all litter. Remove horse manure from the trail and scatter it. Remove manure and excess hay from corrals and dispose of it properly.
  • Bears reside in this area. Store horse feed in proper containers, and secure it inside a vehicle.
  • If you discover serious trail damage or a fire, notify a park ranger immediately.
  • If your animal is injured or dies on a trail, notify a park ranger immediately.
  • If your horse gets loose, and you are unable to catch it, notify a park ranger as soon as possible.

Cross Country Skiing

The South Rim Drive is not plowed during the winter months, allowing the road to become a ski trail. The drive is 6 miles (one way), and allows access to the overlooks. Park at the South Rim Visitor Center, located at Gunnison Point.

Snowshoe Trekking

The upper part of the Oak Flat Loop and Rim Rock Trail are excellent treks for snowshoeing. Take in the incredible views of the snowy canyon that these two trails offer. Snowshoeing is also encouraged in any part of the canyon's rim. Going into the inner canyon, however, is not recommended.

Please be courteous to other trail users by not snowshoeing or walking in the ski tracks along the South Rim Drive.

For the sake of the wildlife surviving this cold season on the canyon rim, dogs are not permitted along the South Rim Drive in winter.

Winter Backcountry Camping

Camping along the closed South Rim Drive is permitted beyond Pulpit Rock Overlook. All wilderness regulations, like no wood fires, apply. A free wilderness use permit is required. Contact the visitors center.

Winter Survival

'Tis the season to be extra careful. Irregular weather, lack of experience, or carelessness can turn a nice outing into a fight for survival. The following easy steps can help you make yours a safe, fun filled adventure.

• Wear adequate clothing. Wool and synthetics will keep you warmer than cotton. Hats, mittens, and extra layers are a must.
• Be prepared. When possible, travel with a companion. Tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back.
• Check the weather forecast and the snow and ice conditions where you plan to go.
• Together with the bare essentials like water and food, bring sunglasses and sunscreen, first aid kit, map and compass.

Hypothermia is a constant threat to people in the outdoors. Knowing the symptoms and what to do can save someone's life. Symptoms can range from uncontrolled shivering to drowsiness and loss of consciousness. When someone shows one or more symptoms you should:

• Get the victim to a dry, sheltered place.
• Remove wet clothing and replace with dry, warm clothing and/or blankets.
• If the victim is awake, slowly give warm non-alcoholic drinks.
• Transport to a medical facility as soon as possible.

South Rim Road

The South Rim Drive is 7 miles from Tomichi Point to High Point, with 10 overlooks in between. Most are reached by walking a short trail. Allow 2-3 hours to view several overlooks. Those with limited time should consider stopping at Gunnison Point, Chasm View, Painted Wall and Sunset View.

The South Rim Visitor Center, which features exhibits on the canyon, is located at Gunnison Point. The visitor center is open daily throughout the summer, and most days of the week the rest of the year. The South Rim Road beyond Gunnison Point is closed to vehicles in winter.

North Rim Road

The North Rim is reached by taking a gravel road from the east end of Crawford State Park. The North Rim Road provides access to 6 overlooks. The canyon walls on the North Rim are almost vertical, offering some of the most impressive views found in the national park. Allow 2-3 hours for a leisurely tour.

Information is available at the North Rim Ranger Station, open intermittently in summer. The North Rim Road is closed in winter.

East Portal Road

Those wishing to drive to the Gunnison River may do so by taking the East Portal Road. This provides access into Curecanti National Recreation Area where camping, picnicking and fishing are available. East Portal Road is closed in winter.

The road is extremely steep (16% grades) with hairpin curves. Vehicles with an overall length (including trailer) greater than 22 feet are prohibited on the East Portal Road. Trailers may be left unhitched and left at a parking area at the campground entrance.

Another access, located at Cimarron (18 miles east via Highway 50), provides an alternative drive to the Gunnison River (and Curecanti National Recreation Area).

National Park Service Areas

• Colorado National Monument, 94 miles
• Curecanti National Recreation Area (0 miles - East Portal; 50 miles - Blue Mesa Reservoir)
• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, 200 miles
• Mesa Verde National Park, 160 miles

Other Attractions

• Crawford State Park, 12 miles
• Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests (40 miles - Grand Mesa, 40 miles -Uncompahgre, 15 miles - Gunnison)
• Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (0 miles - east boundary; 25 miles - west boundary)
• Ridgeway State Park, 40 miles