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Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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Outdoors - Other
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About Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is located in western Colorado, near the town of Montrose. The area is known for its dramatic gorge, which was carved by the Gunnison River. The gorge is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including bighorn sheep, eagles, and canyon Offense. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and rafting in the Gunnison Gorge. In addition, the area offers several scenic drives, as well as opportunities for backcountry exploration.
Address : 2465 S Townsend Ave, Montrose, CO 81401, USA

Hotels near Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area


Things to Do at Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is a great place to visit for those who love the outdoors. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, it is no wonder that this area is one of the most popular destinations in Colorado. There are many things to do at Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also take advantage of the many interpretive programs offered by the park Rangers. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous experience, Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area has something to offer everyone.


Top Activities Near Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

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History of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is located in western Colorado, just east of the town of Montrose. The area was first protected in 1965 as the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument. In 1976, it was redesignated as a national park, and then in 1999 it became a national conservation area. The Gunnison River runs through the heart of the gorge, and the area is known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons, and rock formations. The Gunnison River is one of the few remaining populations of Colorado River cutthroat trout. The river and its canyonlands have been used by humans for centuries, and evidence of this can be seen in the petroglyphs and pictographs left behind by the Ute people.


Best Time to Visit Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but the best time to go depends on what you’re looking for. Spring and early summer are ideal for hikers and mountain bikers, as the trails are open and the wildflowers are in bloom. Late summer and fall are perfect for fishing and rafting, as the water levels are high and the weather is warm. And wintertime brings its own unique beauty, with the snow-capped peaks providing a stunning backdrop for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

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Tips for Visiting Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

  1. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services within the park boundaries. 
  2. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some difficult hiking. 
  3. Be sure to pack insect repellent, as there are lots of mosquitoes in the area. 
  4. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is home to many different species of animals.
  5. respectful of the plants and animals, as they are an important part of the ecosystem.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

  1. The Gunnison River is one of the deepest canyons in North America, with depths reaching up to 2,722 feet. 
  2. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in the conservation area.
  3. Gunnison Gorge is one of the few places in Colorado where you can find desert plants growing alongside mountain plants.
  4.  In addition to plants, there are also more than 200 species of birds that have been spotted in the gorge.
  5. The temperatures in the gorge can vary widely depending on the time of year and elevation. In the summer, temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.
  6. There are three developed campgrounds within the NCA, as well as numerous undeveloped campsites.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that visitors often spend days or even weeks exploring all that the Gunnison Gorge has to offer. While there is no definitive answer as to how long it takes to fully explore the area, most experts agree that two weeks is the minimum amount of time required to get a taste of all that Gunnison Gorge has to offer. 


How to Reach Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is located in southwestern Colorado, just east of the town of Montrose. The area can be reached by taking Highway 50 east from Montrose for about 30 miles, then turning south on Highway 92. The turnoff for the National Conservation Area is located about halfway between Montrose and Delta. From Highway 92, it is a short drive to the visitor center and trailhead.


Entrance Fee of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

The entrance fee for the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is $5 per person, and there is an additional fee for camping. 


Opening Hours of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

The area is open from 8AM to 8PM. From October to April, the hours are reduced to 8AM to 5PM.


Attractions Near Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

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Montrose County Historical MuseumThe Montrose County Historical Museum is located in the city of Montrose in southwestern Colorado. The museum's collections focus on the history of the region, with exhibits on topics such as Native American culture, the early days of exploration and settlement, and the area's role in the development of the American West. The museum also maintains a research library and archives, which are open to the public.
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Ute Indian MuseumThe Ute Indian Museum in Montrose County, Colorado is a small museum with a big focus on the history and culture of the Ute people. The museum tells the story of the Ute people from their time as nomadic hunters to their forced relocation onto reservations. The exhibits feature a variety of artifacts, including traditional clothing, tools, and art. The museum also has a number of interactive displays, such as a life-size teepee and a replica wickiup.
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Black Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located in western Colorado, about 12 miles east of Montrose. The park derives its name from the black granite walls that soar 2,000 feet above the Gunnison River. The canyon is one of the deepest and narrowest in North America, and it offers visitors spectacular views of the river below. In addition to hiking and camping, visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and horseback riding. The park is open year-round.
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Black Canyon of the Gunnison WildernessThe Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness is located in Montrose County, Colorado. This wilderness area is bounded by the Gunnison River on the west and the Uncompahgre Plateau on the east. The canyon itself is approximately 12 miles long and 2,000 feet deep. The walls of the canyon are steep and lined with various types of rock, including granite, gneiss, and schist. The canyon floor is strewn with boulders and debris from rockslides.
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Pulpit Rock OverlookNestled in the majestic San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Pulpit Rock Overlook provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The overlook is located just a short hike from the town of Montrose, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. From Pulpit Rock, visitors can see the nearby towns of Ouray and Telluride, as well as the 14,000-foot peaks of the San Juans. The overlook is also a popular spot for bird watching, as it is home to a variety of different species.
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Cerro SummitCerro Summit is a high mountain pass in Montrose County, Colorado. The pass lies on the Continental Divide, at an elevation of 12,276 feet. The pass is traversed by State Highway 145, which connects the towns of Telluride and Placerville. Cerro Summit is one of the highest paved roads in Colorado. The views from the pass are stunning, with alpine meadows and wildflowers in summer, and snow-capped peaks in winter.

Discover More Attractions in Montrose County, Home of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

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Montrose County
Montrose County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. The county is home to some of the state's most popular ski resorts, as well as a number of hiking and biking trails. In addition, Montrose County is home to a number of historic towns and villages, making it a great place to explore Colorado's rich history. Whether you're looking for an exciting vacation or a relaxing getaway, Montrose County is sure to have something

Location of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area


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