Some national parks stop you in your tracks the moment you arrive. Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of them. We pulled over at the national park sign just before the entrance station for the obligatory photo moment, used our National Parks pass at the entrance, and within minutes we were all standing at the rim in complete awe.

This was Day 2 of our road trip to Ouray, Colorado and a surprise graduation trip for my sister. If you missed Day 1, start with our Ouray Perimeter Trail guide where we hiked the full 5.6 mile loop with Tira and camped at Crawford State Park. Black Canyon was the last Colorado national park on our bucket list and checking it off here made it even sweeter.

This park is genuinely one of the most underrated in Colorado and we were all blown away by its vastness. The Painted Wall left us completely breathless.

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Black Canyon of the Gunnison: Park Overview

Black Canyon of the Gunnison exposes you to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America, carved over two million years by the Gunnison River. The canyon reaches a maximum depth of over 2,700 feet and at its narrowest point is only 40 feet wide at the river. It is dramatic, vast, and unlike anything else in Colorado.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, though some roads have limited access or are closed entirely in winter. The South Rim is the most visited and is where you will find the visitor center, the scenic drive, and most of the overlooks. No reservations are required to enter.

Want to make the most of your South Rim Drive? Enhance your visit with the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour so you can learn the history and geology of the canyon at your own pace right from your car. Perfect for families and first time visitors!

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Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison Dog Friendly?

Yes and it is one of the better national parks for dogs in Colorado! Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are welcome on roads, in campgrounds, at all overlooks, and on the Cedar Point Nature Trail and Rim Rock Trail. Dogs are not permitted on any other hiking trails, inner canyon routes, or wilderness areas. We saw so many other dog owners bringing their pups to the park on our visit and it genuinely made our hearts happy. It is a great reminder that national parks can be a shared adventure for the whole family, fur babies included!

Make sure your pup is geared up for the visit! Check out all of our tried and tested pet travel gear for Tira including everything we bring on national park trips.

Quick Dog Friendly Summary

• All overlooks on the South Rim 🐾
• Cedar Point Nature Trail 🐾
• Rim Rock Trail 🐾 (seasonal restriction June 1 to August 15)
• Roads and campgrounds 🐾
• Warner Point Trail and all inner canyon routes: dogs not permitted

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Exploring the Black Canyon South Rim Drive: Every Stop Worth Making

We started at the beginning of the scenic drive and worked our way to the end before doubling back to hit the highlights. Here are all the stops we made:

1. Tomichi Point 🐾 (seasonal restriction)

The very first overlook just past the entrance station and a quick stop that gives you your first look into the canyon and sets the tone for everything ahead. No walking required, just step out and take it all in. Note for dog owners: dogs are not allowed on the Rim Rock Trail section near Tomichi Point from June 1 through August 15 due to deer protecting their fawns, so plan accordingly if visiting in summer.

2. Visitor Center and Gunnison Point 🐾

Right next to the visitor center and one of the best overlooks in the park. A short walk down gives you panoramic views straight into the depths of the canyon. A must stop.

3. High Point and Warner Point Trail

The end of the scenic drive. My sister and I attempted the Warner Point Trail while Jam and Tira waited at the car, but one look at the distance and we quickly decided it was a hike for another trip! Still worth driving out to for the views at High Point. Note that dogs are not permitted on the Warner Point Trail.

4. Cedar Point 🐾

A short 0.67 mile round trip nature trail with views of the Painted Wall and the rock islands at the bottom of the canyon. One of the few trails in the park where dogs are fully welcome year round.

5. Sunset View 🐾

A beautiful and often overlooked stop with a large parking area, picnic tables, and restrooms. Great spot to take a breather and soak in the views.

6. Painted Wall 🐾

The crown jewel of the entire drive and honestly one of the most awe-inspiring things we have ever seen in a national park. The Painted Wall is the tallest cliff in Colorado at over 2,250 feet, streaked with dramatic pink and white pegmatite swirls. We stood there in complete silence for a few minutes. It is that stunning.

7. Chasm View 🐾

One of the most dramatic overlooks in the park. If you are brave enough to peer over the edge you get a jaw-dropping look straight down into the canyon. Not for the faint of heart!

8. Pulpit Rock 🐾

The perfect way to end the drive. Pulpit Rock sits at a sweeping bend in the canyon and gives you a stunning view both up and downstream. A short 134-yard walk to the overlook and so worth every step.

Want to Add a Hike? Rim Rock Trail 🐾 (seasonal)

We did not hike this one on our visit but it is on our list for next time. The Rim Rock Trail is a 1 mile one-way moderately strenuous trail connecting the South Rim Visitor Center to the South Rim Campground, running along the canyon rim with views of the canyon walls, glimpses of the Gunnison River, and panoramic vistas of the West Elk Mountains. Dogs are welcome outside of the June 1 to August 15 summer restriction, so plan accordingly if visiting in peak season.

Bonus: East Portal Road

By the end of the drive we were all hungry and ready for a meal, so East Portal Road will have to wait for next time! This separate road takes you all the way down to the base of the canyon to the Gunnison River for a completely different perspective of the park. Definitely on our list for our next visit!

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Where to Stay Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison

We camped the night before at Crawford State Park which made for a perfect two day Colorado itinerary. If you are planning to camp nearby it is a great option with lakeside views, clean facilities, and a peaceful atmosphere. Check out our First Time Camping Gear guide for everything you need for a comfortable night under the stars. If you are looking for lodging near the park, Montrose is your best base with plenty of options at every price point.

Find nearby lodging on Expedia, Vrbo, or Booking.com.

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What to Pack for Black Canyon of the Gunnison

• Water (at least 2 liters per person, no water sources on the rim)
• Snacks
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Layers (mornings can be cool even in summer)
• Dog water bottle and collapsible bowl
• Poop bags
• Fully charged phone (no cell service in most of the park)

Heading out on a bigger Colorado road trip? Check out our full road trip essentials guide so you never forget a thing.

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Final Thoughts: Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison Worth It?

Absolutely, without question. This is one of those parks that genuinely surprises you. We had no idea how vast and dramatic it would be, and the Painted Wall alone is worth the drive. It is peaceful, not overcrowded, incredibly dog friendly, and honestly one of the most underrated national parks in Colorado.

If you are road tripping through western Colorado, do not skip this one. Add it to your list, bring your dog, and give yourself at least half a day on the South Rim. You will leave wishing you had more time.

Planning to visit? Save this guide and let us know in the comments if you have been to Black Canyon of the Gunnison!