Black Canyon Of The Gunnison

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado is a mesmerizing destination for photographers, offering dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife. This guide will help you plan a successful photoshoot at this stunning location, covering the best times to visit, costs, recommended equipment, legal considerations, potential challenges, and tips for an enjoyable experience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park depends on what you aim to capture:

Spring (April to June): The park is lush and green, with wildflowers blooming, making it perfect for capturing vibrant landscapes. The weather is mild, but some higher trails might still have snow.
Summer (July to August): The weather is warm and days are long, providing ample time for shooting. However, be prepared for crowds and hotter temperatures.
Fall (September to October): Fall colors enhance the park’s beauty with golden and red hues, offering unique photographic opportunities. The weather is cooler, and the crowds thin out.
Winter (November to March): Winter brings a serene, snowy landscape, ideal for dramatic and peaceful shots. Some areas might be inaccessible due to snow, so check park conditions beforehand.

Cost to Enter

Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is $30 per vehicle, valid for seven days. For individuals on foot or bike, the fee is $15.
Annual Pass: An annual pass is available for $55, which is a great option if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the year.

Recommended Equipment

Camera Body: A high-resolution DSLR or mirrorless camera will capture the fine details of the canyon.
Lenses:
- Wide-Angle Lens (14-24mm): Essential for capturing the vastness of the canyon and sweeping landscapes.
- Telephoto Lens (70-200mm): Ideal for wildlife photography and distant landscapes.
- Macro Lens (100mm): For capturing close-up shots of flora and intricate rock textures.
Tripod: A sturdy tripod is crucial for long exposure shots, especially during low light conditions like sunrise or sunset.
Filters:
- Polarizing Filter: Reduces glare and enhances the sky’s color.
- ND Filter: Useful for long exposures during bright daylight.
Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Ensure you have backups as you will be shooting extensively.
Protective Gear: Weatherproof camera bags and lens covers to protect against dust and moisture.

Legal Restrictions on Photography

Drones: The use of drones is prohibited in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to protect wildlife and the natural tranquility of the area.
Permits: For commercial photography or filming, you may need a permit. Check with the park administration for detailed requirements.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.

Challenges

Lighting: The deep, narrow canyons can create challenging lighting conditions with high contrasts between light and shadow. Plan your shoot around the golden hours (just after sunrise and before sunset) for the best lighting.
Weather: Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for sudden rain, snow, or temperature drops.
Access: Some areas might be difficult to access due to steep and rocky terrain. Wear appropriate hiking boots and be cautious.

Wildlife and Landscapes

Wildlife: The park is home to mule deer, elk, black bears, and a variety of birds like eagles, falcons, and peregrine falcons. Keep your telephoto lens ready for capturing these animals from a safe distance.
Landscapes: The Black Canyon itself is the star attraction with its sheer cliffs and dramatic drops. The Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado, is a must-photograph feature. The Gunnison River at the bottom of the canyon also offers stunning views, especially from Chasm View.

Tips for a Successful Photoshoot

Parking: The South Rim Drive offers several overlooks with parking areas, providing easy access to scenic spots. The North Rim is less developed but offers a more rugged and isolated experience.
Restrooms: Restrooms are available at the South Rim Visitor Center, North Rim Ranger Station, and several overlook points. However, facilities are limited on the North Rim.
Places to Eat: There are no restaurants within the park. Bring your own food and water. Nearby towns like Montrose offer dining options.
Safety: Stay on designated trails and away from cliff edges. The canyon’s cliffs are extremely steep and dangerous.
Sun Protection: The park’s elevation can intensify sun exposure. Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Recommended Spots for Photography

South Rim:
- Gunnison Point: Located near the Visitor Center, offering spectacular views.
- Pulpit Rock Overlook: Ideal for panoramic shots of the canyon.
- Painted Wall View: Best for capturing the intricate patterns on the canyon walls.
North Rim:
- Chasm View: Provides a unique perspective of the canyon.
- Balanced Rock Overlook: A great spot for capturing the rugged terrain.

Final Thoughts

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a photographer’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. With the right preparation and equipment, you can create stunning photographs that showcase the park’s unique beauty. Plan your visit, respect the park’s rules, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery for a memorable and successful photoshoot.

I Have 4 Videos Showing Different Parts Of This Park for My Other Website. You Can Use The Links Below To Check Them Out On YouTube.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison Part 1– This video is not of inside the park. It is the roads leading up to the entrance which I thought were pretty cool

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison Part 2– In this video, I take you from the entrance booth to the back of the park where the road loops around and heads you back to the front. I stop at the first overlook and the visitor/information center and give you a peak at what you will see from the many overlooks located throughout the park. If you watch as I ride to the back of the parks you will see the cut-offs where you can park at the overlooks.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison Part 3- This video will take you from the turn-around in the back of the park up to and through 2 of the 3 camping loops. All the campground loops are fairly similar.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison Part 4- This video will take you down a steep winding downgrade to the banks of the Gunnison River. Easy on the brakes going down or they will heat up and you’ll lose them. There is a point a little more than halfway down that you can pull into and let your brakes cool before continuing. This video shows both the ride up and down.