Don’t you just hate it when you’re in the middle of organizing your conflicting thoughts and that one song pops up on the radio that intensifies all the emotions you’re already feeling? It’s
This item is available in full to subscribers.
At this time, we ask you to confirm your subscription at www.themtnear.com, to continue accessing the only weekly paper in the Peak to Peak region to cover ALL the news you need! Simply click Confirm my subscription now!.
If you are a digital subscriber with an active, online-only subscription then you already have an account here. Just reset your password if you've not yet logged in to your account on this new site.
Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.
Questions? Call us at 303-810-5409 or email info@themountainear.com.
Please log in to continue |
Don’t you just hate it when you’re in the middle of organizing your conflicting thoughts and that one song pops up on the radio that intensifies all the emotions you’re already feeling? It’s truly the last thing you need, but the desperation for clarity takes the song as a sign. That’s where I was, mentally; physically, I was exposing my eyes to some of the most stunning views in Colorado. Which isn’t very difficult to do in our state.
With seven miles of paved road, four hiking trails and 12 overlooks, the South Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (BCGNP) offers you a different perspective – not just on Colorado, but in life. Something happens to you when, in the grand scheme of things, you realize you’re only a mere speck in the vast world you’re living in. The Black Canyon can do it to you.
The South Rim Road is the more developed section of the BCGNP compared to the North Rim. If you stop at all 12 overlooks, take your time, and explore some of the trails, it will take you between two and three hours to enjoy it all. If you’re pressed for time, ask a ranger which ones are the best for you to experience.
If you’re up for the adventure, you can visit both the South and North Rims in one day. My only recommendation is that you plan for a two-hour minimum drive time, adding additional time for pulling over, sightseeing and/or hiking. Start early! Compared to other National Parks, the BCGNP doesn’t have nearly as many trees and the heat of the sun can get to you quickly. Having said that, ample water and sunscreen are vital during your visit. Pack those in your travel bag now!
One of my favorite things about my visit to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park was that beauty can be found anywhere. It all depends on the way you look at things. Sometimes a different perspective is all one needs to accept that there are a plethora of options to solving life’s mysteries. Not that it makes it any easier, as I am no better off now than I was then. C’est la vie!
Just as the song, the views, the heat, the flowers, and the river only offered bits and pieces of the big picture, so did my emotions.
For more information on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park visit https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
