Black Canyon of the Gunnison Np Red Rock Canyon Wilderness Permits
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Red Rock Canyon is located in designated Wilderness on the southwest side of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It is a popular destination for anglers. Hikers also enjoy this route as an alternative to the steeper routes in other parts of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness. The route is 3.5 miles (5.6 km) one-way and gradually drops 1,300 vertical feet (396 m) to the Gunnison River. Access is by wilderness use permit only.
The first mile of the route follows a double-track road from a small parking lot to the trailhead. The route continues into Red Rock Canyon along a shallow creek. Numerous stream crossings may be necessary and can make finding the route a challenge. The route is not marked or maintained. Poison ivy is prolific along the lower section of the route. Hikers are expected to find their own way and should not expect to be rescued. While descending the route observe your surroundings carefully--this will make the return easier. Upon approaching the Gunnison River, campsites will become visible upstream and downstream.
Leave no trace principles apply to Red Rock Canyon in addition to National Park Service regulations. Pack out all trash including human waste. Human waste collection (WAG) bags are available at the trailhead (or bring your own). Only one car is allowed per group. You must display your permit number on the dashboard of the vehicle – this is your parking pass.
Permit & Season Information
Red Rock Canyon wilderness permits allow the permitholder and group to access Red Rock Canyon for hiking, fishing and camping during designated times. The 2023 season for Red Rock Canyon is May 15 - October 31 (exact dates may vary each year).
For 2023, Red Rock Canyon permits will open in two reservation windows:
- On April 14, 2023 at 8 a.m. MT, reservations will open for trips between May 15 and July 31, 2023.
- Be aware that extremely high river levels and flooding are expected May to July 2023. Fishing and/or approaching the river may not be possible during this time.
- Before departing for your trip, check the USGS web page for Gunnison River stream flow data below the Gunnison Tunnel.
- On July 5, 2023 at 8 a.m. MT, reservations will open for the remainder of the season: August 1 to October 31, 2023.
Permits must be printed (or downloaded) within 7 days of trip start date. Once printed, no further modifications can be made to permit. Release dates may change in future years.
Need to Know
- Your safety is your own responsibility. Be prepared for self rescue.
- Use established camping sites. Camping is prohibited in the parking area or along the trail.
- Practice “leave no trace” principles in the canyon. Pack it in, pack it out, including toilet paper. Human waste collection (WAG) bags should be used.
- Open fires, pets, livestock, hunting, wood cutting, and bicycles are prohibited.
- Park regulations and Gold Medal Waters fishing regulations apply. A valid Colorado state fishing license is required.
- Food Storage - practice proper food storage and do not leave packs unattended. Bears may be in the area, and squirrels and other rodents may damage gear trying to access food. Feeding wildlife is illegal.
- Drinking Water - bring one liter of water per person for each hour of hiking or treat Gunnison River water upstream of the canyon route. Do not use water flowing along the trail as it may contain harmful bacteria.
- The river is extremely cold, swift, and dangerous. Do not attempt to wade or swim. Flooding is possible from mid-May to mid-July. Before departing for your trip, check the USGS web page for Gunnison River stream flow data below the Gunnison Tunnel.
- Poison Ivy is prevalent on the lower third of the route and all along the Gunnison River; can be shoulder high in some spots.
- A $30 vehicle entrance fee applies to all users of Red Rock Canyon. Federal Interagency and Black Canyon annual passes are acceptable. Entrance fees may be purchased on www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74332
- Solitude – you may encounter a limited number of other groups.
- Commercial use (including guided fishing, hiking, or camping) is strictly prohibited in the inner canyon zone of Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness.
- There is no cell service in the Red Rock Canyon area.
- Parking - parking for one vehicle is included with the permit. Display the permit number on the vehicle dashboard. Leave extra vehicles at Lions Park at the junction of US Highway 50 and CO Highway 347.
- Carry this permit with you, or an electronic copy downloaded to your device.
- An individual permit holder may not exceed two nights during the peak season (May 15 to July 31).
Fee Policy
- Permit fee = $10
- The park's $30 vehicle entrance fee applies to all users of Red Rock Canyon. Federal Interagency passes (such as annual, senior, golden age, 4th grade, etc.) and Black Canyon annual passes are acceptable. You may pay the fee upon arrival or in advance. Visit the park's Fees & Passes page for more information.
Cancellation Policy
No refunds or changes are allowed. Although there are no refunds, if you have purchased a permit but will not be able to use it, please cancel your reservation so those spots can be made available for another user.
Contact Information
Mailing Address
102 Elk Creek Rd Gunnison CO 81230
Phone Number
970.641.2337 x206
