Popular area attractions within one hour of the park include:
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park - This is one of the most underrated national parks and designated an International Dark-Sky Preserve. The views of the 2,700-foot deep canyon, carved by the Gunnison River and lined with granite and schist walls, will leave you amazed. Wildlife that populate the canyon include bald eagles, golden eagles, mountain goats, mountain lions, bear and trophy trout. For more information visit https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
Grand Mesa - This is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, encompassing 800 square miles and 300 lakes and reservoirs. At an elevation of 10,000 feet, it is a great place to beat the summer heat but bring bug spray as the mosquitoes love the summer too. The Grand Mesa Visitor Center, located north of Cedaredge, has all the info you need https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/gmug/home/?cid=stelprdb5298584
Ouray - Nicknamed "The Switzerland of America" Ouray is truly an alpine village that has been unspoiled by modern development. The entirety of Main Street is designated a National Historic District and is lined with Victorian-era buildings, which have been restored and converted to a variety of shops and restaurants. Jeeps and ATVs can be rented in town for use on the world-renowned off-road trails through the breath-taking San Juan Mountains. After a long day on the trails, relax in one of the five area hot springs including the Ouray Hot Springs Pool at the north end of town. For more information on Ouray visit https://www.ouraycolorado.com
Uncompahgre Plateau - Located just west of Olathe, this plateau, with an average elevation of 9,500 feet, is home to trophy elk, spectacular views, and the Rimrocker Trail. The Rimrocker Trail runs from Montrose to Moab with Olathe located on a spur. You can legally ride your 4-wheeler from your RV space to Moab! https://rimrockertrail.org/
Fishing - With 1/3 mile of river frontage, there is ample opportunity to hook into nice brown trout here at the park. With the exception of the spring runoff in late June and July, fishing is great at the park. All trout must be released and all lures should be debarbed. We recommend Blue Mesa reservoir, just an hour from the park, for rainbow trout or kokanee salmon for the dinner table. A daily bag limit of two brown trout is allowed on the lower Gunnison River, about 45 minutes from the park.
Guided Fishing - Riggs Fly Shop, Guide Service & White Water River Rafting http://fishrigs.com/ provides 1/2-day to 5-day guided float fly fishing trips on the Gunnison, Uncompahgre and other nearby rivers in addition to walk/wade guide trips and tenkara trips. Riggs also offers a variety of white water adventures, including rafting, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding on scenic southwest Colorado rivers.
