North Rim Drive ~ Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

​Flickr album link: North Rim Drive

A visitor will definitely have to take the long way around to get to the North Rim Drive, but the beautiful scenery along the way will make the trip less painful. Colorado Highway 92 meanders through the Curecanti National Recreation area on the way to the North Rim of Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park and there are several scenic overlooks that are well worth checking out. There will be plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities too, so be sure to pack a powerful lens for the ride. Campgrounds can be found in both Curecanti and by the North Rim Ranger Station, so planning an overnighter is easy to do.

North Rim Drive begins near the ranger station and this lengthy dirt road is smooth enough for an average passenger car. Some of the very best views of the deep chasm await along this touring route and there are several famous landmarks to view. Just like the north rim of the Grand Canyon, the North Rim of Black Canyon is always less crowded, so finding an empty parking spot will not be an issue. There are foot paths that go to overlooks that offer majestic views, so it is best to arrive early in order to take most of them on. There are also places to look straight down into the deep abyss, so if you have a fear of heights this may not be the best destination for you. The North Rim definitely has the most dramatic scenery in Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park, so be sure to chalk this scenic drive high on the list!
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