About
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a deep, steep-walled canyon in the United States, set within the Colorado River system. It is a place for visitors who come to be struck by scale and shadow: its dark canyon walls rise sharply on either side of the river, and the vertical cliff formations are the feature most people remember.
The canyon is best suited to those who come to paddle. The river here is a challenging section of the Colorado River system, and it draws kayakers looking for a demanding route through technical rapids. The setting is serious and absorbing, and the water rewards careful attention.
What to expect
- Dramatic walls: the dark canyon rock closes in around the river, making the views from the water especially striking.
- Vertical cliffs: the breathtaking formations rise high above the riverbed.
- Technical water: the rapids call for skill and are not suited to beginners.
Who it suits
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is most fitting for advanced paddlers and for visitors who appreciate wild, dramatic landscapes. If you are planning a trip, it is worth reading up on conditions and preparing with experienced guidance before you set out on the river. Anyone who simply wants to view the canyon can still take in its scale and character as a visit in its own right.