COME TO LIFE Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, towering cliffs block out horizon glow and the remote location eliminates nearly all ambient light, creating ideal conditions for stargazing. When evening arrives, the park turns into a natural observatory, where you can watch the Milky Way stretch overhead. To make a full day of it, start with a morning hike along Warner Point Nature Trail overlooking the Uncompahgre Valley and San Juan Mountains. Or in nearby Montrose, spend some time at the Montrose Botanic Gardens , strolling past colorful native plants and jagged peak outlooks. Grab an early dinner at Camp Robber , where the menu leans into Colorado comfort with spicy chile rellenos and juicy elk burgers. Return to the park as twilight fades and the stars take over. If you’re visiting during AstroFest , held each summer, the park’s night skies come alive with ranger-led programs, telescope stations and constellation tours. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park 132 1-800-COLORADO JASON HATFIELD Discover More Dark-Sky Places
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2026: Page 132
