Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Driving Tour

What your day looks like

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Your journey to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison begins just off Highway 50, near the Black Canyon Country Store. From there, you’ll drive north toward the park and learn about the ancient sea which once covered this landscape, as well as the pygmy forests you’ll see during your journey. And don’t forget to snap a selfie at the National Park Sign! You’ll get your first good look at the canyon at Tomichi Point, then continue on to the South Rim Visitor Center and the famous Gunnison Point, a breathtaking overlook that offers one of the most iconic canyon views. As you drive alongside the canyon, next, you’ll hear dramatic tales of those who tried to tame its roaring river. Get the blow by blow of each ill-fated expedition and find out why they all went wrong. Then stop at Pulpit Rock Overlook for a great view of the river itself. Continue to Cross Fissures View, where striking rock formations tell tales of the earth’s tumultuous movements. Nearby, Rock Point and Devils Lookout offer more dramatic vistas, perfect for photography. Then you’ll reach the Painted Wall, the canyon’s tallest cliff, vividly streaked with pegmatite. It’s the canyon’s most famous wall for a good reason! Catch some sunset views at the appropriately named Sunset View, then continue on to the trailhead for the Warner Point Nature Trail. Whether or not you decide to hike this magnificent canyonside trail, your tour concludes here.