The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Updated: May 22
Our visit to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park was an experience that was on our bucket list. One of our highlights was hiking along the Gunnison River by Mesa Creek, which offered stunning views of the canyon's imposing walls and the crystal-clear waters of the river. As we hiked, we felt a sense of awe and wonder while taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of the park. The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and uneven terrain, but the effort is well worth it for the stunning views you'll encounter along the way. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a beautiful walk in nature, hiking along the Gunnison River by Mesa Creek is an experience you won't soon forget.
All of the overlooks into the canyon on the South Rim were awesome, especially the Painted Wall. This was the second Colorado National Park on the road trip. To see the start go here.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Park Guide Trail Guide
With our trailer, it was a 7-hour drive to Montrose where we stayed in the Montrose KOA. We spent 4 days here exploring the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and the surrounding area.
The day we spent driving the South Rim Road in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park was an incredible experience that offered unparalleled views of the canyon's stunning natural beauty. The road winds its way along the rim of the canyon, offering a series of breathtaking viewpoints that provide a different perspective of the park's awe-inspiring landscape at each stop. The highlight of the drive for us was undoubtedly the Painted Wall Overlook, which offered a panoramic view of the park's most iconic feature - the towering, multi-colored Painted Wall. The sight of this sheer cliff face was truly awe-inspiring, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting the park. Driving the South Rim Road is an unforgettable experience that offers an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the incredible natural beauty of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
The shoulder bag I use isn't available anymore but this one looks great.
The Tenba backpack I use To see the other photo gear I use click here
The next morning we drove to the Painted Wall Overlook pre-sunrise to watch the light changing the wall and the canyon through the twilight phase to sunrise.
Following our visit to the South Rim Road in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, we decided to take a short drive down to the Morrow Point Dam Picnic Area and embark on the Mesa Creek Trail. This beautiful trail runs alongside the Gunnison River and is accessed via a charming footbridge over the water. As we hiked, we were greeted by a spectacular display of fall colors that added an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery. The Mesa Creek Trail is a relatively easy hike that offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the park and appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the Gunnison River.
In conclusion, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an absolute treasure of natural beauty and a must-see destination for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast. From driving along the South Rim Road with its numerous viewpoints, including the spectacular Painted Wall Overlook, to hiking the Mesa Creek Trail with its vibrant fall colors and scenic river views, the park offers a range of unforgettable experiences for visitors. The stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park make it a unique and cherished destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Do you want to see where we went next? Grand Mesa Scenic By-Way
Lorna's Tips and Lessons
Even though our trailer is considered small, like many RVs, it could use more counter space. That's why I've come to love my roll-up dish drying rack. When not in use, it easily rolls up and stashes away, but when it's time to do dishes, it's an incredibly helpful tool to have on hand. No more balancing wet dishes on the limited counter space or dealing with a clunky dish rack taking up valuable room. With the roll-up rack, I can wash and dry dishes quickly and efficiently, and then stash it away until the next time it's needed. It's a small solution, but it makes a big difference when living on the road!