South Rim Visitor Center

Totally closed to all vehicle traffic throughout the hard winter months, the North Rim is where the Black Canyon of the Gunnison gets seriously rugged. You can take the North Rim Road to encounter some of the most undeveloped portions of the park, where lookouts gaze down steep crevasses to the green waters of the river far below. The best part? This wild corner of the preserve is way less busy than its southern compadre. About 30 minutes’ drive out of Montrose, the South Rim Visitor Center is often the first port of call for travelers heading into the depths of the Gunnison valley. It’s a fine intro to the park. There are exhibits on the local wildlife and flora, along with trained rangers who are happy to answer any questions you have about the gorge and its history. What’s more, the views from Gunnison Point just out back are among the best in the area!