Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Inner Canyon Hikes

Hiking into the inner canyon, is not for the faint of heart—or step. These scrambles are extremely arduous, and should only be attempted by individuals in excellent physical condition.

A free permit is required for all hikers going into the Canyon, if the visitor center is closed there are instructions available for self registration. Don't under any circumstances skip this step if you arrive early, apart from controlling numbers of people going into the canyon it also lets rangers know there are people in the Canyon, if you get into difficulties, somebody will know you are down there.

I wouldn't want to put anyone off hiking into the Canyon, it's a fantastic experience, but... the trails are unmarked, unmaintained, footing suspect and STEEP. Chains are required in places. Poison ivy is common and the water contains Giardia. When you reach the bottom the water is cold, fast flowing and the rocks are in places moss covered and very slick. You'll need to be fit and be prepared.

Six named routes lead down to the river, but they are not maintained or marked. These super-steep, rocky routes vary in one-way distance from 1 to 2 3/4 miles, and the descent can be anywhere from 1,800 to 2,702 ft. Your reward, of course, is a rare look at the bottom of the canyon and the fast-flowing Gunnison. Don't attempt an inner-canyon hike without plenty of water, high energy food and proper hiking boots.

Dogs are not permitted in the inner canyon.

The routes are briefly outlined below, check with rangers for further details before setting out.

South Rim

Gunnison Route
This is the most popular route, and is recommended to persons attempting their first inner-canyon hike. An 80 foot chain is located 1/3 of the way down. The Oak Flat Overlook is a short distance west of the route

Tomichi Route
This route is very difficult due to loose rock along the entire length and full exposure to the sun. Use extra caution while descending due to the abundance of large, loose rocks.

Warner Route
This is the longest route - overnights are suggested. Campsites are located up and downstream.

North Rim

S.O.B. Draw
This gully is west of the North Rim Campground. Campsites are located downstream a short distance.

Long Draw
This side canyon was originally named Devil's Slide by an early explorer of Black Canyon. Long Draw begins just northeast of Balanced Rock Overlook and leads to the river at a location downstream from the Narrows.

Slide Draw
Slide Draw is extremely steep with loose rocks comprising the floor of the draw. A good camping area is found at the river.

Inner Canyon Hikes - North Rim Hikes - South Rim Hikes

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