Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Telluride
After spending a day in Canyonlands, get back into your car and make the American West road trip’s most extended segment yet…A three-hour drive out of Utah and into beautiful Colorado.
Once you’ve crossed the state line, it’ll take about two hours to reach your next destination: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The red rock terrains of Utah are long gone, replaced by dark Precambrian rock.
But, just like many of Utah parks, Black Canyon is created around a deep, steep-walled gorge.
You can drive down to the bottom of the valley on the winding East Portal Road or explore the South Rim Road and enjoy the 12 overlooks and small hiking trails that curve off the route. Pro-tip: Remember to stop at the striped Painted Wall cliff face!
After spending your day here, make the picturesque one and a half hour drive to the gorgeous mountain town of Telluride, which is incredibly scenic and offers lots to do on your “down day,” including leisurely hikes and waterfalls.
You can even take a free gondola up the mountain at this American West road trip stop.
1 thought on “American West Road Trips: 8 Stunning Sights You Must-See”
I actually made that trip in 2009 plus Yellowstone, the Tetons and Glacier. Incredible memories and a number of digital photos to keep them alive. So worth doing……..