In May 2005, Rachelle and I took a vacation to Colorado. After visiting Royal Gorge, we crossed the Continental Divide and made plans to spend our fourth day in Colorado visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The National Park’s sign greeted us as we entered the park.
The Gunnison River carved the Black Canyon. Like Royal Gorge, the canyon is narrow and its walls are steep.
Our first stop in the park was at Tomichi Point. From here we had our first views into the depths of the canyon.
Rachelle took this photo of a dead tree guarding the canyon.
In the distance, the snow-capped peaks of the West Elk Mountains loom majestically over the canyon.
Next, we visited the Visitor Center and afterwards hiked the short trail out to Gunnison Point.
The Gunnison River’s usually steep descent and narrow channel cause the river to be quite loud. We were told that at the bottom of the canyon the river is deafening. Even at 1,840 feet above the river, we could easily hear the roar of the water as the Gunnison River rushed below us.
Here’s a close-up of the river and the canyon floor.
One Comment
Hi;
I am going on a trip to the Black Canyon this June or July and I want to hit the Salmon Fly Hatch as close as I can. Did you fish while you were there. Do you know where I can get some info on it? Also, What advice would you give if to someone who hasn’t hike there before? What type of closes shoes…ect?
Thanks,
-Aaron