Black Canyon National Park
#MONTROSECO
There is no exaggeration in saying that the Black Canyon National Park is one of the nation’s most breathtaking scenic treasures. Carved through solid granite over countless millennia, the dark canyon walls plunge an awe-inspiring 2,700 feet to the Gunnison River below.
As one of the nation’s hidden treasures, the Black Canyon allows visitors to immerse themselves in a memorable vacation experience undiminished by the ‘human drama’ often experienced in better-known destinations.
Aside from its scenic splendor, the Black Canyon plays host to an amazing variety of outdoor adventures that make it a must-do for your Western Colorado vacation. Take the simple approach and enjoy the canyon from one of the many vantage points along the rim, or accept our invitation to “Look Deeper” by exploring and discovering the canyon’s hidden gems.
Watch Good Morning America’s coverage of Black Canyon National Park as part of their celebration of the 100th National Park Service Anniversary.
Warm Season Activities
In Summer, the Canyon offers world-class fishing, hiking, traditional rock climbing (for more advanced climbers), stargazing, horseback riding, nature walks, camping, and many other adventures. Rafting and kayaking are also popular, but most of the river in the canyon is suitable only for the more experienced watersport enthusiasts due to the number of impassable stretches and class III – V rapids. Still, the canyon’s remote and dramatic beauty makes it a unique and satisfying destination for everyone.
Cold Season Activities
Winter brings the closure of the north rim entrance, as well as a whole new set of activities including stargazing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and back-country camping. Those same views that are so breathtaking and awe-inspiring throughout the summer are even more so when dusted in snow, beneath the quiet cold.
Maps & Resources
- Black Canyon Webcams
- Black Canyon Fees and Reservations
- Black Canyon Inner Canyon Trail Map
- Detailed Black Canyon Trail Information
- Warner Point Nature Trail Guide
- Detailed Inner Canyon Hiking Info
This year is something truly special. Colorado is celebrating 150 years of statehood, and the United States is celebrating 250 years of independence, making 2026 a true Sesquisemiquincentennial year.
To help celebrate this historic milestone, we’re offering birthday pricing!
25% OFF all 150/250 Anniversary merchandise
July 27 – August 1
Visit the Montrose Visitor Center
Want an even better deal? Stop by the Visit Montrose booth on Colorado Day, Aug 1 at Saturday’s Farmers Market in Centennial Plaza from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and receive an extra surprise discount. You’ll be glad you did.
Montrose DART Montrose Lifestyle America 250 - Colorado 150 Commemoration
Kick off Func Fest by learning skills that could help save a life!
Join @southwestrescue1 on Friday, August 7, at 1:00 p.m. at the Riverbottom for a free, hands-on water safety event designed to help you build confidence and stay safe around rivers and moving water.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
• Practice basic swimming and self-rescue techniques
• Learn about river awareness and common water hazards
• Gain practical skills for safely enjoying time on the water
• Try throw bagging through interactive demonstrations
• Learn how to throw and receive a rescue rope and communicate during a water emergency
Whether you’re a frequent river adventurer or simply want to be better prepared, this interactive event offers valuable skills that can help keep you, your friends, and your family safer while enjoying our local waterways.
Start your Func Fest weekend by becoming river smart with Southwest Rescue. We hope to see you at the Montrose Rotary Amphitheater on August 7!
@city_of_montrose Montrose DART Montrose Lifestyle @southwestrescue1
Add Southwest Rescue (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066981126347) as a colaborator please
Peak fishing season is here, and there’s no better time to experience the rivers and streams that make our area a favorite destination for anglers. Guided fishing trips are a great way to discover local waters, improve your skills, and spend a memorable day outdoors.
Many trips book well in advance, but it’s always worth contacting one of our local guides. Ask about cancellations, available openings this season, or start planning ahead for next year. Whether you`re a first-time angler or a seasoned fisherman, local guides offer both float trips and walk-and-wade adventures tailored to your experience level, helping you make the most of your time on the water.
Montrose Anglers
@edsflyshop
@rigsflyshop
#MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose
The countdown is on for FUNC Fest 2026 — and the full Schedule of Events is here!
Mark your calendars:
Friday, Aug 7 – Food trucks, beer garden, and free live music from the @montrose_summer_music_series at the Amphitheater opening with GottaBe and headlining is @bandofheathens.
Saturday, Aug 8 – All-day festivities with water sports competitions, Native American Powwow, local talent performances, family fun activities, and a food and beer garden at Riverbottom. Stick around to enjoy free live music by @thevioletpines and headliner @heavydiamondring!
More details: visitmontrose.com/FUNC
@City of Montrose Colorado Government Montrose Lifestyle Montrose DART
#MontroseCo
🦆 Ready... Set... DUCK! 🦆
The FUNC Ducky Race is back and it`s your chance to cheer your duck to victory while supporting an incredible cause!
Every duck helps support Partners of Delta, Montrose & Ouray and the life-changing mentoring they provide to local kids.
Saturday, August 8
Heats at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., & 2:30 p.m. with finals at 3 p.m.
Riverbottom Park
$3 per duck or 2 ducks for $5
$1,000+ in prizes!
Purchase your ducks at the Partners Mentoring Youth booth during FUNC Fest or online prior to the race at:
https://partners-west.org/donate%2Fsponsor
#MontroseCO
@city_of_montrose Montrose DART Montrose Lifestyle
To our Visitor Center volunteers, like Nikki: thank you for bringing warmth, patience, and a genuine desire to help others feel welcome. Your time and care do not go unnoticed; they are what make this place truly special.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park never fails to impress, whether you`re visiting for the first time or have called this area home for years.
With dramatic canyon walls, breathtaking overlooks, scenic trails, and opportunities to venture deep below the rim, it`s a place that inspires awe with every visit.
Bring your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and discover why the Black Canyon remains one of Colorado`s most unforgettable landscapes.
#MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose @blackcanyonnps
Join us on Saturday, August 8 at Riverbottom Park for FUNC Fest!
The Beer Garden, presented by @MADA & @shelterdistillingmontrose , opens at 12:00 PM, alongside the food truck village, serving up delicious eats all afternoon.
Whether you`re enjoying lunch from the food trucks, a cold drink at the beer garden, or gathering with friends to watch the festivities before the live music starts, Riverbottom is the place to be.
Free Concert opening with The Violet Pines at 6:00 PM and headlining we have, Heavy Diamond Ring at 7:30 PM.
Bring your friends and your lawn chairs, and enjoy the day at FUNC Fest with great food, cold drinks, and free live music.
City of Montrose Colorado Government Montrose Lifestyle Montrose DART
Whether you’re casting a line, exploring a trail, or soaking in the beauty of the outdoors, adventures are even better when shared—whether with two-legged friends or four-legged companions.
Before heading out, take a moment to check the air quality and conditions where you are planning on exploring, so you can plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
Stop by the Visitor Center, grab a free KN95 mask if you need, and chat with our volunteers for local recommendations on dog-friendly trails, lakes, and mountain destinations throughout the region.
#MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose
Vendor registration for FUNC Fest is now open!
Join us on Saturday, August 8, for one of Montrose’s river festival and showcase your business, products, services, or organization in our vendor marketplace.
Vendors from Montrose, the surrounding region, and beyond are welcome to apply.
Apply today: qrco.de/FUNCvendor
Registration closes Monday, August 3, at 5 p.m., or when all vendor spaces have been filled.
Be part of a day filled with community, entertainment, shopping, and summer fun. Reserve your spot today!
@cityofmontrose @montroselifestyle @montrosedart
If your favorite place is on the river, make the most of the season with one last weekend on the water at FUNC Fest.
SIGN UP FOR THE COMPS: qrco.de/watercomps
FUNC Fest brings together paddlers, surfers, kayakers, paddleboarders, competitors, and adventure seekers for an unforgettable weekend on the Uncompahgre River. Whether you’re looking to test your skills or simply experience the thrill of competition, our youth and adult events offer something for every level.
Compete for cash prizes, rad medals, and bragging rights while soaking up the energy of the last river festival of the year.
When you’re not on the water, enjoy live music, the River Parade, local food and drinks, family activities, and everything Montrose has to offer. Make a weekend of it by exploring Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the Rim Rocker Trail, and our vibrant downtown.
More info about FUNC Fest: qrco.de/FUNC
@city_of_montrose @montroselifestyle @montrosedart
Be part of the action!
We`re looking for volunteers to help make this year`s FUNC Fest our best one yet! No experience is needed - just a positive attitude and a willingness to lend a hand.
Volunteering at FUNC is a great way to support local recreation, connect with your community, and enjoy a day by the river while helping create an incredible event for everyone.
As a token of our appreciation, all volunteers will receive a food voucher, a FUNC merchandise voucher, and a goodie bag.
To get involved, please contact Dawn Dovey at dawn@visitmontrose.com and join the fun!
