How to Explore the South Rim Road in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison

The best way to see the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is to explore the South Rim Road. This road is the easiest way to access the best views in the park and you can easily enjoy a 1/2 day by driving the road and stopping at the scenic overlooks and short hikes. We spent a day exploring the South Rim Road in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and will share the top highlights and things to do.

If you are looking for help planning a visit, check out our guide to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Quick Overview of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison South Rim Road

The guide below offers details of the Black Canyon South Rm Road, but you can also just set out to explore the road on your own and stop at the sites along the way – many of the overlooks are similar so while I am making recommendations, you don’t need to overthink it too much!

.Stretching approximately 7 miles, the paved road features numerous scenic pullouts and overlooks where you can see the rugged rock formations carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years. Some of the best stops include Gunnison Point and the Painted Wall, showcasing the canyon’s striking vertical rock faces.

Is the North Rim Worth Visiting?

The North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a slightly different experience and is more remote and unpaved. This less-visited area offers a different perspective on the canyon’s dramatic geology, with its own set of breathtaking overlooks and rugged terrain. Key viewpoints include Sunset View and Dragon Point. The North Rim also features several hiking opportunities, such as the North Vista Trail. It takes much longer to access the North Rim and this part of the park is closed for part of the year.

Detailed Itinerary to the South Rim Road in the Black Canyon

Below you can see a step by step guide to the South Rim Road in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. This is assuming you are getting to the park in the morning, but you can also arrive slightly later. We actually visited when it was cold in April and chose to start our visit around 11 after it warmed up a bit. We found that you should plan a 1/2 day to explore the South Rim Road, but you could easily take more time, especially if you want a longer hike into the canyon.

Early Morning

• Start your visit at the South Rim Visitor Center to pick up maps, check current conditions, and get recommendations from park rangers. Take the walk out to the viewpoint right at the visitor center for your first views of the canyon
• Begin your drive along the South Rim Road. Stop at Gunnison Point for stunning views of the canyon. This viewpoint offers a good introduction to the park and its dramatic landscape.
• Continue driving to Lookout Point for panoramic views. Next, visit Pulpit Rock for another breathtaking perspective of the canyon.

Late Morning

• Take a short, easy hike on the Rim Rock Trail. This trail offers great views and is an accessible way to experience the park’s natural beauty. It’s a relatively flat trail, making it suitable for a half-day adventure.
• Drive to additional overlooks like Chasm View and Painted Wall View. These spots offer different angles and impressive views of the canyon’s features. We Like Painted Wall so make sure you stop here.
• Stop at the end of the Road and hike to Warner Point.

If you have longer than a 1/2 day, we also recommend driving to the bottom of the Canyon.

Things to Know About Visiting the Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Best Time to Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison

The best time to visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is spring and fall. Summer can also be pleasant but warm. Here are some general things to know about the weather:

• Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for temperature fluctuations and sudden storms. Summers are generally warm, while winters can be cold with snow.
• Seasons: The South Rim is accessible year-round, but the North Rim is only open from late June to mid-September due to snow and road conditions.

Entrance Fee

There is a fee to enter the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. You can learn more at the National Park Service site. There is no reservation system in place.

Safety in the Park

• Trails and Overlooks: Some trails and overlooks are close to steep drop-offs. Stay on marked paths and maintain a safe distance from edges. If you have a fear of heights, just be aware that the overlooks can feel a bit nervewracking.
• Cell Service: Cell phone reception can be limited or non-existent, especially on the North Rim. We found good cell service along parts of the South Rim