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

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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