Colorado's National Parks
Alpine tundra, North America's tallest dunes, a sheer black canyon and ancient cliff dwellings.
Best time to visit · Colorado
Best Time to Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
A narrow, sheer canyon so deep that sunlight barely reaches the bottom.
The best time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is May–September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May. It's busiest in June through September.
Month by month
Jan FairFeb FairMar FairApr GoodMay PrimeJun PrimeJul PrimeAug PrimeSep PrimeOct GoodNov FairDec Fair
Best monthsMay–Sep
Best valueMay
BusiestJun–Sep
Established1999
Black Canyon of the Gunnison by season
Winter Fair
The South Rim Road is plowed only to the visitor center; beyond it is a snowshoe and ski route.
Spring Good
The South Rim Road opens fully in spring. The East Portal road reopens to the river.
Summer Prime
Everything is open, including the more remote North Rim. It's pleasant but warm.
Fall Good
Scrub oak and aspens turn color, and crisp weather makes rim hikes ideal.
What to do
- Look down from Painted Wall View
- Walk the Warner Point Nature Trail
- Drive down to East Portal at the river
- Peer over at Chasm View
- Stargaze from the South Rim
Local tip
Most visitors only see the South Rim. The North Rim is a long, partly gravel drive, but it has even more dramatic overlooks.
Good to know
Some parts of the Black Canyon get only 33 minutes of sunlight a day.
Before you go: The North Rim road and East Portal road close in winter. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Montrose (MTJ), about 20 minutes.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Black Canyon of the Gunnison month-by-month ratings
Road trips with Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Questions about visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison
When is the best time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
The best time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is May–September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May. It's busiest in June through September.
What is the worst time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
November through March are the weakest time, when conditions are at their worst.
When is Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in June through September. May offers the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park worth visiting in winter?
The South Rim Road is plowed only to the visitor center; beyond it is a snowshoe and ski route.
Do you need a reservation for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
The North Rim road and East Portal road close in winter. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
The most convenient airport is Montrose (MTJ), about 20 minutes.
How many days do you need at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
Most road trips spend 1 to 2 days here.
More in Rocky Mountains & Plains · National parks in Colorado · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.