The North Rim Of Colorado’s Black Canyon Is Reopening — What You Need To Know

After a month of wildfires at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, firefighters and first responders can finally share some good news.

The National Park was closed on July 10 following lightning strikes that ignited the canyon rim. The National Park Service announced on Sunday that the North Rim of the Black Canyon will reopen to the public on Wednesday, July 30th.

North Rim Reopens July 30

Read More: This Is the Highest Point in Montrose County, Colorado

A press release from the National Park Service issued on July 27th has announced the reopening of the North Rim section of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Montrose. Coloradans and guests will be able to access trails, overlooks, and the North Rim Campground beginning July 30th. The South Rim of the Black Canyon remains closed due to an active wildfire.

How to Reach the North Rim

The North Rim at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is located about 11 miles southwest of the city of Crawford. Once you arrive in Crawford, take Highway 92 to Black Canyon Road (3 miles south of Crawford). Follow the signs to 7295 Black Canyon Road, Crawford. The last seven miles of the road are not paved. The North Rim is closed to vehicles once winter arrives.

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Trails, Overlooks & Scenic Highlights

The South Rim of the Black Canyon is the more popular side of the National Park due to accessibility, but there are plenty of things to love about the North Rim. A scenic drive offers six overlooks into the Black Canyon, including Big Island, Island Peaks, and the Kneeling Camel. The North Rim also offers shorter hiking trails, such as the Chasm View Nature Trail and the North Vista Trail to Exclamation Point (seen above).