Black Canyon of Gunnison By: Josephine Wilbourn and Joseph Tapscott

Located and Established: ●The Black Canyon of Gunnison was located in western Colorado. ●The Black Canyon of Gunnison was established in Oct.21,1999

History By the middle of the century, exploration of the American west had captured the nation's attention. In turn expeditions came to the Black Canyon searching for railroad passageways, mineral wealth, or in a quest for water. Eventually explorers came to see the canyon, not for commercial wealth, but for the renewal and recreation that it offered.Today, you can walk in the footsteps of some of these hardy and inquisitive forebearers. The canyon still offers a rugged and demanding experience, even as it did more than a hundred of years ago.

Attraction: Families around the world travel to Colorado to experience the state’s unique attractions. With 54 mountain peaks rising over 14,000 feet above sea level, and over 600 more that top 13,000 feet, Colorado’s mountains are a sight to behold. While mountains in general draw families for skiing or hiking, certain high points stand out as attractions in their own right. An estimated 250,000 tourists visit the park annually. The main attraction of the park is the scenic drive along US Highway 50 and Colorado Highway 92, as well as the south rim. The west end of the park, where it meet Blue Mesa Reservoir at Blue Mesa Point, is the area most developed for camping.

Visitors: Black Canyon National Park is one of the nation’s most breathtaking scenic treasures. The dark canyon walls plunge an awe-inspiring 2,700 feet to the Gunnison River s one of the nation’s hidden treasures Summer is the most popular time to visit but crisp days in late spring and early fall make for excellent walks. Winter affords opportunities for backcountry camping, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. With the rim at 8,000 feet above sea level, winter can set in as early as November and last until April. One can spend most of the day driving the seven-mile (one-way) South Rim and exploring its five or so miles of trails.

More facts about Black Canyon of Gunnison ❏ Black Canyon of the Gunnison exposes you to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. With two million years to work, the Gunnison River, along with the forces of weathering, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky. ❏ You can spend most of the day driving the seven-mile (one-way) South Rim and exploring its five or so miles of trails. But reserve the afternoon, or a second day, for a walk down to the canyon floor. If you have more time, visit the North Rim and its five-mile unpaved drive. ❏ Since at least the beginning of the 20th century, people have tried to explore and tame the Gunnison River, including building dams and a tunnel. ❏ The park's Painted Wall is the highest cliff in Colorado. From river to rim it stands 2,250 ft. (685 meters), and is 1000 feet (304 meters) taller than the Empire State Building. ❏ The canyon and its rims are home to black bear, mule deer,and golden eagles. ❏ An estimated 250,000 tourists visit the park annually.

REFERENCES National Park Service Black Canyon of Gunnison. National Geographic Black Canyon of Gunnison.

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