If you’ve never heard of this protected land, you’re not alone. Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the 20 least-visited national parks, with a little over 430,000 people visiting every year.
At its deepest point, the canyon is 2,722 feet (830 meters) deep. While that doesn’t compare to, say, the Grand Canyon, the area “has been nearly impenetrable to humans for time immemorial,” according to Pearson. This is because of the narrowness of its cliffs — whose sharp drops are sure to induce vertigo — and the force of the untamable Gunnison River.
Experienced hikers will enjoy the challenge of the pristine wilderness. As Pearson explains, “there are no maintained or marked trails into the inner canyon, but intrepid souls can descend via a number of wilderness routes along the South Rim.” Some of these trails provide spectacular views of Painted Wall, the highest cliff in Colorado.
The lack of crowds also means a higher chance of seeing wildlife like elk and golden eagles.
