East Portal Road ~ Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Flickr album link: East Portal Road

East Portal Road goes into the depths of the Black Canyon Of The Gunnison and this is a little tour that is well worth taking on. The road to East Portal begins on South Rim Drive and the incline is steep all the way downhill to the river. There are several turnouts along the way that offer magnificent views of Black Canyon, so it is best to not be in a hurry. An entirely new world awaits upon arrival at the deep canyon floor, where visitors will find a lush green riverside oasis.

The East Portal picnic areas have plenty of shade trees and they certainly are inviting There is a campground onsite too, but it is best to make reservations well ahead of time. Fly fishing in the Gunnison certainly is a pastime in East Portal, so be sure to pack some fishing gear for the ride. The views of the towering Black Canyon spires are simply amazing to see in this end of the National Park, which is actually within the boundaries of the neighboring Curecanti National Recreation Area. East Portal definitely is a unique experience of its own, especially after gazing into this deep abyss from way up top!