The 53-mile long narrow gorge along the Gunnison River is known as the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Its spectacular landscape is a feast for the eyes. Formed by the slow action of water and rock scrubbing down the hard Proterozoic rock, the sheer black walls of the canyon plunge to nearly 2,700 feet into the narrow gorge.

Resembling more of a cut in the earth than a wide, river formed canyon, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an example of the diverse geology in southwestern Colorado. At the bottom of the canyon, the Gunnison River continues its journey, flowing as it has for the past millions of years.

Part of the Black Canyon has now been designated a National Park. The area's status changed from National Monument to National Park in 1999, making it the newest National Park in the United States. There are many activities available including hiking the rim of the Canyon, fishing for the large trout that make the Gunnison River their home, raft or kayak the whitewater section of the River, and/or camp along the Canyon Rim. Even in the winter, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a great location for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sight seeing.