South Rim Road
Seven miles with overlooks, among them the Painted Wall and Chasm View.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
A narrow, sheer canyon so deep and dark that parts of it see just minutes of sun a day.
The Gunnison River has cut about 2,700 feet down through hard, dark rock here, in places less than 1,100 feet wide at the rim. Its walls are dizzying, with the great pink-veined Painted Wall.
- Best Time
- May–October
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Check before you go; hours vary by season
- Getting There
- About 20 minutes by car from Montrose, Colorado.
What to See
0 of 3 are freeEast Portal Road
A very steep road down to the river itself. It's closed in winter.
Warner Point Trail
An easy walk to the widest view.
Know Before You Go
- The South Rim road closes partway in winter. There are few services, so bring water.
Where to Stay
Stay in Montrose.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Rocky Mountains list.