John Cletheroe's
USA and Canada Holiday Hints
|
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
In my opinion the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the USA and Canada.
Location
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, only recently upgraded from National Monument status, is in western Colorado near the town of Montrose. From Montrose take US50 east and then Co347 north to the south rim of the park. Access to all parts of the south rim is by paved road.
There is also access via an unpaved road to the north rim. There is no bridge over the river in or near the park, so the distance by road between the two rims is considerable; I calculate the eastern route via Sapinero as being about 90 miles long and the western route via Delta as being about 85 miles long. I have not visited the north rim.
What to See and Do
Drive along the south rim stopping at the various overlooks, where you can look down into the spectacular very narrow and extremely deep canyon. Many consider the Black Canyon to be an even more spectacular sight than the Grand Canyon, although it isn't on the same scale. It is certainly more comprehensible to the eye than the Grand Canyon, since the river is always in clear view from the rim. Photograph (67KB).
Some of the overlooks are close to the road, while at others a short walk is required. All the walks are virtually level and easy.
It is also possible drive down to the bottom of the canyon via the East Portal Road. The paved road, which starts from near the south rim entrance, isn't nearly as steep or dangerous as the warning signs suggest and the view at the bottom makes an excellent contrast to that at the rim.
Entrance Fee
Entrance fee for a normal car, including the driver and all passengers, for seven days, as at summer 1999: $7. This fee may have increased now that the Black Canyon is a National Park.
Some Ideas for Places to Stay
In the Area
Colorado
Colorado Plateau
Desert Southwest
Mountain Roads
National Monuments
National Parks
Seven Wonders Of The USA And Canada
Home | States/Provinces | Subjects
As with all the other pages on this personal web site, all the information on this page is solely the opinion of the author, who has no connection whatsoever with any of the companies and organisations mentioned other than as an actual or potential customer.
About this personal web site JohnCletheroe
EMail me
Most recently modified 22-Jul-01