The Top 10 Gorges in the West Elk Mountains
Gorges are incredibly beautiful places, and you’ve got 10
to choose from in the West Elk Mountains. Just browse our list of the best gorges below and see photos, tips and extra info to help you visit one of these beautiful places on your next adventure in the West Elk Mountains.
to choose from in the West Elk Mountains. Just browse our list of the best gorges below and see photos, tips and extra info to help you visit one of these beautiful places on your next adventure in the West Elk Mountains.
Last updated: November 15, 2025
Warner Point Nature Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
This is a wonderful hike with interpretive signs starting at the end of the South Rim Road. It might be a short distance to Warner Point, but it's not the …
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South Rim Visitor Center, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Highlight • Rest Area
The Visitor Center is open year-round, but be aware that the opening times can vary by season. As with most NPS Visitor Centers, you can expect rangers, exhibits, and a …
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Gunnison Route (Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
If you want to hike to the inner canyon you need a wilderness permit, which can be obtained at the South Rim Visit Center, and the right gear to get …
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Tomichi Route, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
If you want to hike to the inner canyon you need a wilderness permit, which can be obtained at the South Rim Visit Center, and the right gear to get …
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Green Mountain Summit
Highlight • Summit
Green Mountain is the only 'summit' hike in Black Canyon National Park which gives you a different perspective of the canyon than any other hike in the park. Views of …
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Oak Flat Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
A short and fairly easy hiking loop from the visitor center. There is definitely a couple of steep sections, though! This is why I recommend hiking CCW.
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Gunnison Point Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Gunnison Point is a wonderful overlook situated just behind the South Rim Visitor Center. It offers incredible views of the Black Canyon.
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Exclamation Point Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Exclamation Point is an incredible viewing point just off the North Vista Trail. This is the final destination for some hikers, but it is possible to continue toward Green Mountain to find a view from higher up.
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Pine Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Just below the Blue Mesa Dam, the Pine Creek Trail follows along the southern banks of the narrow reservoir. There are views along the trail after you get down the …
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Behind the Rocks Trail
Highlight • Trail
You'll ride next to a beautiful rock cliff. That alone is super fun. And the trail itself is also very playful with fast sections and some great rock features. Enjoy it!
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Most popular attractions in the West Elk Mountains
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