Inside Black Canyon of the Gunnison: A Scenic Drive Down to the Gunnison River with 16% Grades

The last time we drove the East Portal Road to the bottom of Black Canyon was about 4 or 5 years ago. Our daughter Jenna was with us at the time and it was just a quick stop on our way to a concert where we were playing that evening. This time we stayed a few hours, not just in the bottom of the canyon, but also along the canyon rim looking down to where we had been.

The difference in elevation from High Point along the rim (8,289 feet) to East Portal (6,547 feet)is over 1,700 feet. While the view is spectacular from the top with it's steep walls and deep, dark, violent cuts, it's very peaceful down in the canyon at East Portal. It's a 5 mile drive from the park entrance to East Portal and the road is not for the faint of heart. With grades of as much as 16%, narrow lanes, and sharp switchbacks it can be a little harrowing. Do not to use your brakes too much, but rather downshift to help maintain your speed and control. Once you are down along the Gunnison River it's a different world. The road is flat and runs along the river form the primitive trail and camping area to the gate at the Crystal Dam. Here you will find a picnic area, restrooms, and lots of places along the river to fish. If you take a primitive trail remember that poison ivy is prevalent along the base of the canyon.

If you are planning on driving the East Portal Road please make sure your vehicle, and you, are up for the challenge. You do not want to have car troubles while driving down into, or once you get to the bottom of the canyon. Cellphone signal is sketchy at best. Though you are down in a canyon you are still over 6,000 feet in elevation. Take plenty of water as there is no potable water at the bottom. Use sunscreen and hats and stay hydrated, it is a very dry climate. There is no swimming or kayaking in the river. Though it looks calm, it is not. The current is very swift and there are many obstacles under the surface.

There will be a second video showing our adventures on the canyon rim.

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Equipment:
iPhone 13
Akaso EK7000 Camera
GoPro Hero 9 Black
Bcway Phone All-in-One Travel Tripod with Remote
onn. Wireless Selfie Stick
Trekking Poles, Insulated Bottles, and Backpack are Ozark Trail
Hiking hat is a Tilley

Music:
Yoga Style - Chris Haugen
Glen Canyon - Dan Lebowitz

We travel in a 2019 Toyota RAV4 XLE front-wheel drive with over 162,000 miles. We are still praying for a small Casita camper to tow behind it.

Recorded July 14, 2023 at East Portal in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado.