What it lacks in width, the Black Canyon makes up for in depth. Great cliffs plunge to the Gunnison River, at points more than 2,700 feet down, creating some of the best and most advanced rock-climbing opportunities in the national park system.

What it lacks in width, the Black Canyon makes up for in depth. Great cliffs plunge to the Gunnison River, at points more than 2,700 feet down, creating some of the best and most advanced rock-climbing opportunities in the National Park System.

he story of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park dates back over 60 million years. Created by volcanic eruptions and the force of the Gunnison River, Black Canyon is known for its dark skies and the highest cliff in Colorado: Painted Wall. The annual Black Canyon Astronomy festival takes place on the South Rim, where visitors can participate in astronomy activities and telescope viewings with rangers and volunteers. Check the park’s website for more details.

Reaching the bottom of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is no easy feat. There are a few different routes down to the bottom, and even though the Gunnison Route is generally considered to be the easiest, it still requires some respectable rock scrambling.