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Natural Monuments

Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

Natural Monuments

Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

Highlight (Segment) • Canyon

Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

Name: Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness
Rating: 2

Recommended by 1 hikers

This segment may be dangerous

Parts of this Highlight comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

This Highlight goes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

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Location: Montrose County, Colorado, United States

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Best Hiking Routes to Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

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1. Pinyon Draw — North Rim — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

3.73km

02:51

570m

Steep wilderness descent through Pinyon Draw to the roaring Gunnison River far below towering canyon walls.

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Tips

Wilko Koning

April 5, 2023

If you want to hike to the inner canyon you need a wilderness permit, which can be obtained at the North Rim Ranger Station, and the right gear to get down there. Microspikes are recommended during early spring, fall, and winter. Hiking poles can also be very useful. If you plan to camp at the river, don't forget your overnight gear.

That being said, on the North Rim this is the 'easiest' inner canyon hike according to the NPS. This does not mean it is easy though. There are several ledges, lots of loose rocks, and steep terrain to conquer. Next to that, it is very common for there to be a lot of poison ivy on the trail. So dress and prepare accordingly. Talk to a ranger and do your own research before you venture out.

The Pinyon Draw is a 1.75-mile hike (one way) with 1800 ft. of vertical drop. There are 2 miles of river access and six campsites. The descent should take you around 2 hours and the ascent about 3 hours.

Info about wilderness permits: nps.gov/blca/planyourvisit/innercanyon.htm
Warner Point Orientation Video: nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=E07F5D13-305A-401F-825E-28271AB80E44

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Details

Informations

Distance 1.83 km

Uphill 600 m

Downhill 30 m

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Location: Montrose County, Colorado, United States

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Pinyon Draw, Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness

1. Pinyon Draw — North Rim — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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