Gunnison National Forest Reviews

Gunnison is really a great part of Colorado. The views from here are awesome. There are so many activities that you can do from mountain biking, to taking hikes.

Gunnison National Forest is truly amazing and beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A must see and do. Take lots of pictures. Stop and enjoy all the beauty. This area was one of the prettiest that I seen while on vacation. I would highly recommend this to anyone traveling in the area.

Some of the best scenic views of what Colorado can offer can be found in this region.
Hike, bike, ATV, ride horses, etc. what ever you are into can be found and enjoyed responsibly in this forest. Kebler Pass and Ohio Pass are excellent for getting out and enjoying nature.

What a beautiful drive despite the heavy rain, the soaring cliffs and rocks the autumn colors, the running rivers and streams give you a great feeling of majestic serenity.

We rented a house right on the Gunnison River thinking we'd be able to walk right out the back door to fish every day. We were sorely mistaken as the river was running four times faster than normal due to snow melt. Make sure you read the fishing reports before heading that way. Stop by Gene Taylor's Fly Shop in town for tips and flies. Very friendly, knowledgeable folks eager to help visitors! We drove up into Almont and found some quieter places to fly fish and used the house as "home base" for the week.

Beautiful vistas and short hikes to amazing views. Bring water and pack a lunch! There are great spots to eat lunch and just soak up the outdoors.

We spent a few hours hiking around Hartman Rocks in the Gunnison area and would highly recommend getting out and seeing this gem!

We are in love with the Colorado mountains. We camped up Soap Creek Mesa. There are cool evenings even in the summer.

I have lived my life in Gunnison. This has been my back yard and my children's and my grand children's. God blessed us with the best back yard in the world.

The Gunnison national forest is quiet a forest. It has pine trees. It also has aspen trees. There are some streams. A lake or two. I saw a squirrel.

We spent about half of day here. Spent a lot time walking and seeing excellent views. I would recommend this park to all.

Central Colorado's Western Slope. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, wild life, and high altitude. Not for the timid, but a real treat for high mountains types.

Beautiful area which offers something for any age outdoor person and it is much less crowded here than just about anywhere on the front range esp the mts just west of Denver

We love the Gunnison area! Our favorite thing is to drive and look for wildlife. Never disappointed! Wish we could spend more time but not sure we would ever have enough.

Nice place to camp, but second year with no water (both 2019 and 2020 no water). $29 per night is a bit steep to charge for campground with no water or hookups. Otherwise, nice place to camp along the river. About 35 minute drive to Crested Butte.

Love this area. Everyone walks or rides their bikes everywhere. Things to do include cycling (road and trail), hiking, backpacking, RV & tent camping, canoeing & kayaking, fishing in lake or rivers too. Rentals of off-road vehicles and any outdoor equipment you could hope for are everywhere.
Give yourself an extra day to acclimatize for the 9000 ft (2740 m) elevation before you get really active or you'll get winded at first. All services and amenities are accessible
This area is like a secret treasure not widely known about.

The west elk loop is a must for fall leaf viewing. They were paving so allow extra drive time. Make sure to fill up on gas and snacks as stops are few and far between.

Gorgeous scenery and trails to either drive, walk or ride! Wildlife enjoyable to see. Weather is very comfortable!

Amazingly beautiful park, but much smaller than you would think. We made it through in about a 1/2 day without doing the longer hikes.

We have visited most if no all of the National Parks in the West of America & this would rate among the best. We were not expecting this to be so scenic & vast & it was. The painted rocks were outstanding.

Beautiful trip to a RV Park. Towed a car as lots to see and many restaurants. A day trip to Crested Butte was charming. Roads in Colorado are steep especially Monarch pass. Beautiful lakes and canyons to explore. If you like to fish the Black Mesa Lake is huge and you can rent a boat for the day. The town of Gunnison is fun with lots of restaurants, many pet friendly.

This national forest has many experiences to offer. Hiking trails up the summits of some of the higher mountains, as well as gentle walks through glades of beautiful wild flowers in bloom. We were able to see the glorious Mount(s) Antero, Princeton and Yale as we made our way to to Buena Vista on 285, with the Pike and San Isabel National Forest on our right. There are several turn-outs along the way with info plaques and opportunities for relaxed photo ops. As you travel further west, Mount Aetna is an awesome sight, although a little difficult to see as you approach the continental divide around Monarch Pass. As you drop down into the Gunnison area there are chances to experience the high mountain meadows, particularly if you venture north on 135 to Crested Butte. Wonderfu!

Ohio and Kebler Passes are a yearly trek for me in the fall for the Aspens. Even with the drought this year, the colors were fabulous ! I also got to see snow on the peaks alongside the Castles for the first time. Breathtaking ! John Denver's lyric Almost heaven West Virginia should have been Colorado. Oh well, this is a true Rocky Mountain High destination. Around every bend you will say WOW !

This is the most beautiful place to go while in Gunnison area. Some of the roads are narrow and very very bumpy so be aware of this if you are going up to the mountains. Alot of wildlife to see and many rocks to collect.

Absolutely stunning forest any time of year! There is a lot to do for the outdoorsman and beautiful scenery!

In size and scope of terrain, this is a huge area with lots of opportunities to do anything related to the outdoors including scenic drives.

We drove through the north rim of the Black Canyon. Every vista was more stunning than the one before. So worth it!

Drive in and out on the same road. Towards the end not for the faint of heart. Some places it is a single lane road with a drop off. Which means that you might have to back up.
Also no low riding cars. Basically all the hard area are after the Botanical Research area. Botanical research area was very interesting

Wonderful camping experience! Fresh cool air! Mountains every where you look! Streams filled with trout! Excellent hiking trails. Or just take a drive and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature! Some roads are only gravel so a 4- wheel drive vehicle is best. Not much cell service in the area so get a map before you set out.

we drove through this forest on a 30 mile dirt road (I think this is the one). Although scary, the scenery was awesome. Be sure you have plenty of fuel before making this journey.

This entire area is just beautiful. Well worth the drive and taking the time to get out and hike around.

I have come back many times to enjoy the natural beauty. Nothing can express the feeling of nature in a writing, you must see it yourself.

We went early in the morning — not the best time for photos. The cliffs were amazing though. (Painted Wall was the highlight.) Make time for botht the south rim road and east portal road. (Winding roads on the latter.) Worth three hours detour.

I loved this National Forest! It was the perfect place to drive through for the day. Few people get off the main highways anymore, but when you take a forest road through this area you'll enjoy all the best nature has too offer from great views, fresh air, and wildlife! Everyone needs to be aware of our national treasures such as this Forest region.

Nice forest really beautiful, would like to see in the fall. Monarch Pass is a really nice pass to drive and very scenic

The entire Gunnison National Forest area is stunning, amazing, I am going to shy away from divulging too much information as I encourage people to make their way here themselves to discover at their own pace how amazing this area is. Once you visit though I recommend visiting the Curecanti National Recreation Area as well! The foliage is particularly amazing in this area of the state, and one can spend all day basking under the Sunny Gunny sky.

The area around Gothic is absolutely gorgeous! Don't miss it! Easily accessible by car, plenty of parking and restrooms. The Rocky Mountain Biology Research Lab is close and interesting.

We drove through, stopped for lots of pictures, picnic and saw wild life frequently. Fall is out of this world spectacular and so colorful. Great outing for anyone.

Beautiful and lots of hiking trails. Loved the beautiful landscape, hated the hot weather. Lots of pretty wildflowers were blooming.

We enjoyed many areas of this forest with our travels from Paonia through hwy 12 (unpaved but very doable in a regular car) and out to Crested Butte and then back in going to the Black Canyon. It was wonderful from all sides.plenty of water features, aspen trees, flowers and even herding sheep led by a couple of well trained dogs. It was exciting to see.

We were in a Jeep so were not intimidated by some of the rougher roads. We saw pickups, Subaru's, and even one VW Bug on our trip.

This is a must see for anyone who loves the outdoors. Most of the roads are very passable. If you have time (and a map) do try to make it to Paradise Divide (over 11,000 ft). There is a pond there, at the top of the world and when the wind is calm the sky, clouds, trees and surrounding mountains are beautifully reflected in the water.

We were watchful for wildlife and saw mule deer and a couple of cow elk.

We had our dogs with us and let them run a bit in the Paradise Valley (our name for it) and PLAY IN THE SNOW IN AUGUST.

We had a wonderful time and plan a return trip to send several days exploring and discovering if all of the fishy looking creeks have fish in them!!

This forest is so fresh and healthy. Let's keep it that way by not leaving trash or starting fires! So many type places to camp. And the rivers that go through it all super clean!

Lots of back-country roads to travel. Several RV parks that are open most of the warm months. Also lots of locations for boondocking. Only traveled Northeast out of Almont (Norht of Gunnison). There is a simple resort area at Taylor Reservoir that has cabins, rv sites, small store and rents ATVs, etc. Did not go to Crested Butte or Aspen this trip.

I love this place. Very clean, nice people, lots of things todo. Biking paths, hiking paths, lots of fishing holes, and the lake is beautiful. Would visit this area again

This forest is a gorgeous area of Colorado. It has become increasingly vehicle friendly in some sections of the forest.

Whether by auto or motorcycle, get yourself on this loop through the mountains and canyon. You can start in Gunnison, and travel the bigger outside loop up through Aspen, then onto Hwy 192 to the interior. The panoramic views are outstanding, with literally hundreds of picture moments waiting to happen. It's a whole day affair, so start early!

My wife and I spent quite a bit of time in Gunnison National Forest as we stayed in both Montrose and Gunnison on a recent Colorado trip. This whole area is just beautiful and stunning. Be sure and take a day trip to Crested Butte.

About: Gunnison National Forest was named for Captain John Gunnison, a man who came through this area in 1853 in search of a feasible route across the Continental Divide for a railroad. The present forest consists of over 1.7 million acres of public land and over 100,000 acres of private land within its boundaries. There are 2 peaks over 14,000' and another 20 that are over 13,000' in elevation.

The trip through the mountains to Gunnison is beautiful any time of the year. Roads are in good condition also

This year the trip over Ohio and Kebler Passes was delayed by clouds and rain. Finally on day 4 the sun appeared and I took wonderful photos. The Aspen trees had more red showing this year too. Had a scary experience on the narrow road over Ohio Pass. It had snowed the previous day and the road was in poor condition. Almost got stuck in the ice on top of mud incline near the top. No traction and had to back down to a wide spot to get back to Gunnison. I prayed that I wouldn't go over the cliff and fortunately another photographer helped me to settle my nerves. Probably should have tried 4 wheel drive but was too upset to think of it. Photos were worth it though !

We met family at a camp site in the Cochetope and drove through. The hills are still very green dotted with patches of wild flowers throughout. And the fields are lush and swaying with the breeze going through. We were also able to see a few deer and a small herd of 8 elk. Blue mesa has refilled to what looks like 3/4 of its highest level, the boaters and fishers were taking full advantage. Beautiful day for a pretty drive.

Many of the Aspens had started to turn to their falls colors...beautiful views. Several large ranches along the country side, which were beautiful also.

Incredible scenery. A lot of deferent looks. Some times road for miles and saw no one. If you want to see things like they were a 100 years ago I would recommend.

The Gunnison National Forest was part of our ride through the forest roads as part of our five state, 2700 mile dual sport motorcycle tour.

Cannot begin to describe the beauty you will find here! And I own a vacation home in the Eastern Sierra! The vistas are so green, so gorgeous and clean! What a great destination for ann outdoor vacation!

If you go to Nat'l Forests, this is one of the better ones. Haven't been to Gunnison Ranger station yet; others in area staffed by helpful personel as usual.

Just lookit map and choose spot to enjoy.

Gunnison National Forest is really a must-visit when you are in CO! The road all the way to the top of Taylor Reservoir is almost done with resurfacing, the campgrounds are gorgeous and well-maintained, the Taylor River provides ample fishing opportunities, the area is beautiful, and the proximity to Crested Butte and Gunnison is ideal. We have camped at Lodgepole and most recently with our RV at One Mile campground (3 times now). Electric hookup is available, and the campsites are reasonably priced and shaded by trees. Walk across the road for fishing! This year we even had 3 bars of Verizon signal on our cell phones -- which is helpful for any emergencies and keeping in touch with family. At the top of the road behind Taylor Reservoir, stage for ATV activities or access multiple hikes and mountain climbs!! Highly recommend!

We are constantly in search of good camping spots in Colorado. This spot is about a 3.5 to 4 hour drive from Denver. If it's good weather, make sure to take Cottonwood Pass from Buena Vista instead of going all the way down through Gunnison. It saves about 45 minutes of driving, but the road is pretty rough.

The campground we stayed at was Lottis Creek. It's about 10 minutes south of Taylor Resevoir. There are no electric or water hookups, but there are toilets. Most of the camping spots are shady. There are lots of trees around!

The prime spot is #21. It's at the furthest end of the campground, so it's pretty private. It backs up to the creek. The water is really close - about 15 to 20 feet from the picnic table. We were there in August & the water was shallow enough to let the kids & dog play safely. Spot #22 is the next best one. It also backs up to the creek, but is right next to the bathrooms.

There are some cool hiking trails that leave from the campground. Most of the camping spots are for campers or motorhomes, but there are some tent camp spots too.

Always love driving in the Gunnsion National Forest. Watch out for unsafe drivers though. Stop and enjoy the views and take lots of pictures.

Spent all day exploring hiking walking and viewing. Fabulous time. Recommend this whole area and Mesa and the Rim to all.

This is a fabulous area to visit in the fall in Colorado! Road trips over Ohio and Kebler Passes are breathtaking. Crested Butte,Black Canyon and Taylor Park Reservoir are just a short drive away.

The black canyon at Gunnison National Park was amazing! Many spots available for excellent views and photo opportunities. Painted rocks were gorgeous.

North and south rim have different views.Book the boat ride into the canyon through the ranger station prior to going on your trip so you are not dissappointed of not getting seating.Call around 8am if you have not booked and see if there are any cancellations.You have to hike down 250 steps and then a half our hike to the boat dock,leave your self plenty of time.Trips are at 10am and 12pm.We hike the canyon passed the boat dock very beautiful.Children friendly.You can also book whitewater rafting in the area.Make sure you visit Crested Butte,wild flower capital of the world (or at least CO).Many trails to hike.Lots of activities in the town.Try Shepra's for Nepal and Indian cusine,tiny but good food and big helpings.

I particularly liked the Black Canyon on the Gunnison River, and even though I walk with a stick i could make to to one of the nearby viewpoints.

We visit this area every year and love driving in the NF. Some of the roads are a little rough but you learn which ones you can drive and which ones not to try. Great scenery.

My brother is very familiar with this area and he spent a day showing the sights to my husband and me. It was a beautiful day, the wildflowers were in bloom and we took a lot of photos!! You have to love the Rocky Mountains!

My friends and I bumped into this area by accident and found it to be about the prettiest spot we'd seen all week, and we had seen many spots by that time. It is picturesque, and yet not overrun by tourists. It also isn't shamelessly commercialized like so many locations are in this state. I just got done planning our trip for next year to this locale.

We are tent campers and we had a wonderful spot to put our tent. We were not very close to other campers. It was very quiet but we could fall asleep listening to the Taylor River. Very beautiful place. Because of fire restriction stage 2 we couldn't use our Coleman camp stove and so our host, Eric, lent us his Weber grill. Eric is an amazing campground host. He keeps everything very clean, especially the bathrooms.

The Black Canyons of the Gunnison is impressive black rocks with bursts of diamonds(silica) in them that really glitter when the sun strikes them. It costs $15 or you need a National Park pass.

Beautiful fall colors and hiking availability throughout the Gunnison/Crested Butte area. Both Gunnison and Crested Butte are between seasons so the store hours are limited.

Beautiful area with tons of wildlife beautiful views too. Fishing was great.Weather was awesome . Cool nights and starry skies.

Whether walking or driving, we had picture perfect views. Park staff where knowledgeable and helpful.

What a wonderful way to spend a day. Take a drive or spend the night .snow is packed and ready for fun

Have done the South Rim before, so decided to do the North Rim. What an excellent choice. Hiking trails were awesome and longer than south trails. The north rim is not as populated as south, which was a total plus. My husband and I felt like we had the whole place to ourselves!

We traveled from Aspen to New Mexico (by car) thru Macclure Pass and Gunnison National Forest k at end of 2014 / beginning 2015. Was unbelievable beautiful. A LOT of snow and one place most beautiful than other.
We really recommend
Want to go back in summer to see the difference.

Colorado folks seem to understand the value of wild area for recreation and wildlife. Lots of hiking trails. Lots and lots of fishermen. Some raft companies Ok to use. We did not see but big horn sheep and elk are in the area.

The drive is so beautiful. Everywhere you look there is something to see. Take the drives away from the large highways and you will see beautiful sites to hike. We loved it.

The scenery is beautiful in this area. We spent two weeks riding the trails around Pitkin and Taylor Park. We arrived home an hour ago, and are already making plans to return.

This covers a large area, with lots to do. There are fun roads to explore everywhere, with wildflowers in the summer, finishing, hiking, history, you name it.

The beauty of the area is amazing.
What I disliked...the rain and cloud cover that prevented visibility of the surrounding mountain peaks.

Beautiful scenery and lovely drive up to Crested Butte. A nice side trip up 92 toward the Gunnison Canyon.

The Gothic Biological Laboratory and the camp grounds to the north are worth the visit. The scenery is incredible.

We drove around this entire area and it was all beautiful. Make it your stop, if you are coming to Colorado!

The mountains are absolutely beautiful here. The flowers in early August were amazing and the weather was perfect. The close proximity to the airport makes it an easy destination.

So I'm not going to give away my "secret stashes" on as widely read as Tripadvisor. But the handful of trails I've done in the GNF have been outstanding. While perhaps not as scenic as the more popular ones up in Crested Butte...neither are they as crowded. I did run into other people...but it was only a couple of small groups on a couple of occasions...so hardly overrun. I will definitely be returning. If you need the beta on trails there are a couple of decent guidebooks. Pick up one of those....or check with the Forest Service (they have trail info online with really decent write-ups). Enjoy!

Great hiking, biking and 4 wheeling. Wish we could have spent a month exploring the trails, rivers and streams. Had chamber of commerce weather which made it nice.

Beautiful and peaceful. Great trails and beautiful flowers and streams. Mountains are beautiful. We rode Waunita Ranch horses and had a wonderful time!

Kebler pass from Paonia to Crested Butte is extraordinary. And once in Crested Butte, make sure to drive north to Gothic. It's one of the most beautiful drives we've ever seen!

In the Gunnison National Forest area there is a place in Almont, Co called the Almont Resort. We did a TERRIFFIC rafting trip. It was class 2-3 rapids. We had to paddle a little but loved it!

Expected the Black Canyon of the Gunnison to be bigger. It was very deep, though. It took a long time on back roads to get there. There was also a dirt road that you had to take for several miles.

Plenty of hiking, photography, etc. Be careful about getting off paved roads. We though we were taking a shortcut down an old logging road and found we couldn't go any further due to gravel road washout so had to backtrack.

This place is one of the most beautiful in a state full of beautiful places. We camped at One Mile Campground. They have electric hook-up for RVs like our fifth wheel. Every morning we had breakfast out at the picnic table surrounded by woods and mountains. We could hear the stream and watch the jays. It's heaven. Then take the drive to the continental divide for a real thrill. Wow. We love this place.

It was very pretty there and we took lots of pictures. . We will to go again and spend a little longer next time

If you love nature and the beauty of it then you will need to be sure to go to this National Forest. It spans over many miles so there are alot of things to see.If you love rock-hounding, there are plenty to be found here. Quartz, Rose Quartz and Black tourmaline. Just do a search where to go. Great place for a family picnic

We loved our visits to Gunnison National Forest. We spent 3 days visiting. There were great views from the drive and on each hike we took. There is plenty to see and do here as a couple or as a family.

Lots of beautiful scenery. Many places for dispersed camping. Starting to get trampled by out of state travelers who either don't know or don't care about camping ethics.

It seems that everywhere you turn in this wonderful State provides you with a lovely view and an engaging environment. This is so in the Gunnison National Forest. But the best of all is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison with views that must not be missed. leave a full day or more if you can.

Evaluating a varied area as large as Gunnison National Forest is clearly a big problem, so I'll be specific about what I'm rating: If you drive just beyond Gothic on the main road (unimproved but easily passable by passenger cars with a bit of care), you get to the trail head for Copper Creek Trail almost immediately, and then, after a bit more driving, the one for Washington Gulch Trail. Both trails were remarkable experiences, and I do intend to return and explore this area more thoroughly.

The National park is almost an hour drive away from the small town of Gunnison.
We went in the morning when the sun was strong - the drive to different view points is short. And every point had a breath taking view of the black canyon.From gunnison, we drove to the south rim visitor center.
From there we covered all the view points in the map. There are trails for a short hike and if you are upto it , you can easily spend half a day covering all these trails. The view of the canyon and the sound of the water by itself is very soothing.
From there, we went to the River view (you have to come all the way back and then take the river route) and had our lunch by the river. There is a picnic area by the river and again, the view is awesome . Definitely worth a day trip!

Gunnison National Forest is so huge it is difficult to review but where we explored was amazing. Mostly along the Slate River Road outside of Crested Butte the scenery is awesome with views of snow covered mountain tops, fast moving rivers, waterfalls everywhere from snow melt, etc., etc., etc. Simply amazing and awesome. We will return as often as we can.

After having hiked three 14ers this summer I was prepared for a more casual experience. I have always heard that the Black Forest of the Gunnison was a spectacular place and so off I went. The staff at the visitors center were excellent in their description of the Gunnison Route (not a trail). Strenuous (yea, yea), steep with no clear trail to follow and once on the cayon floor keep a watchful eye out for bear, Lynx, and Mt Lions. Thank goodness there aren't any wolverines! After signing my permit I hoisted my 32lb pack over my shoulder and off I went. The last thing I heard as I left the center was, "You can always turn back if it looks too hard". Right. The trail was easy until I hit the Wilderness Area where the trail took a nosedive toward the river. They did say it was a one mile hike with a 1,800' drop. The first indication of the steepness was an 80' chain to help you down the steepest part of the trail. Frankly, they should have had a mile long chain down the canyon! But once down on the canyon floor and listening to the river roar past and looking up at the towering canyon walls I was in total awe. The night was beautiful (did I say I was spending the night?) as the sky was clear and the stars were magnificent. The animal thing kinda played with my head specially after cooking Italian sausage and cheesy potatoes, but I was soon asleep. The next morning was bright blue skies and warm. After a hearty breakfast I packed up (I was tempted to abandon all my gear for an easier trek up but better judgement prevailed) and headed up...and up...and... My legs are still sore, but a great sore! But at 65 years old feeling sore is normal. This, by far was the greatest two mile trip I have ever taken.

We camped at Rosy Lane Campground along the Taylor River within the national forest. Great place to relax, fish, hike.

1.3 million acres of endless opportunities, motorized friendly,
world class hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, site seeing and the
list goes on.

Rode several miles on several different trails through this awesome & beautiful national treasure. Stopped numerous times just to take in all of the sights, sounds & smells.

Have spent many a wonderful days in the area. Always enjoyable to cruise the back roads and get out of the city.

Great visit. We spent just a couple of hours looking at the amazing canyon. Wow! More impressive than Grand Canyon. Very deep & walls are amazing. You must walk from 200-400 ft to a viewing area. The paths are pretty good but some are a little steep. You can see the River from above. We toured the south rim, heard it was better than north rim. It was great. Definitely a must do!

WOW! Colorado will truly never cease to amaze you with this sight! Wildlife galore, Elk and Sheep, Visit in September for the Aspen changing to gold.

Enjoyed our drive through the G national forest.

*Note that this is not the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Nat'l Park. This listing is for the Gunnison Nat'l Forest --- 2 different things.

Wonderful but little visited canyon and park (at least it was empty when I was there) Peer over the edge of a very deep canyon with seemingly black walls. There is so much going on visually that it is hard to focus on any one thing! An outdfoor treat!

wow how pretty this area really is Ive spent many years in the roaring fork valley in the summers and em glad I traveled out of the way to be here instead.

Beautiful area with lots of camping, hiking and most importantly, fly fishing. Something for everyone in the Gunnison National Forest.

Whether its hiking, biking or skiing the Gunnison National Forest is a must visit for a recreation enthusiast.

We love to hike in this area as well as the drives are very scenic. To our guests from other parts of the country: Please drive more safely on the dirt roads. There is no need to drive so fast that navigating the turns is risky for others coming in the opposite direction. Please help us all keep this a beautiful and soothing place in nature. You will enjoy the experience more too.

Stayed there for 2 nights on. trip from Denver to Cortez on Million Dollar Highway.Good dry camping site as lake was full in June.Told it was good fishing.Good water after many years of drought.

Beautiful drive along the highway. We got to see a variety of landscapes from farms to flatlands. Be on he lookout for wildlife such as mule deer. Gorgeous flowers dot the landscape.

Some really spectacular scenery of the mountains and Black Canyon. Pack a lunch. Plenty of picnic spots and restrooms along the way.

We were driving thru Colorado on our way to Moab , Utah and deciding to stop and see the Black Canyons of Gunnison . Glad we did it is very beautiful and well worth to go a little out of your way if visiting Colorado .

Difficult to access via few major airports Gunnison National Forest provides outdoor opportunities for just about everyone who loves the outdoors and the mountains. World class fishing, camping, hiking, backpacking, Class IV whitewater, climbing, hunting, and rock hounding. Wildlife abounds and you are bound to find a little piece of this massive area to call your own!

I drove from Gunnison, through Almont, up to the Taylor Park dam and the views-- the whole drive was gorgeous, but the view of the mountains from the pull off overlooking the water-- WOW. There were lots of places along the drive to camp, and there was even a camping place up the hill above the pull off where RV's were parked. Other RV's appeared to be parked down near the shore. I pulled off a dozen times during the drive, some places had picnic tables and camp sites-- and I saw one couple having a picnic on a huge rock sticking out into the river at one of the pull-offs. Lots of people parked and fly fishing, and passed one spot about half way between Almont and the dam where rock climbers were busy. Gorgeous forest, gorgeous drive, beautiful pull-offs, picnic areas, and camping.

Absolutely beautiful area to hike and play. We hiked a long stretch of "Oh Be Joyful" out of Crested Butte (kids 6 and 8). Did about 5 miles round trip and loved it.

Beautiful drive through Colorado. I was pulling a trailer and the Highway is in great shape with plenty of room.

National Forests are my favorite public lands. Wild, undeveloped, and beautiful, they are also accessible to everyone, not just ultra-fit hikers. My family has made many wonderful memories exploring ruggest forest roads on ATVs. There are so many opportunities: to visit historic mining sites, do a little rock-hounding, see wildlife, and take in amazing, majestic views. The best camping we have ever done was in national forests. I highly recommend getting out and exploring these amazing places.

The Gunnison National Forest is well worth the visit. With beautiful mountains, lots of great hiking, mountain biking, skiing and more. Any time of year is beautiful but especially the fall with the changing leaves. Winters are harsh so unless you are prepared, stick to summer or fall.

Beautiful drive along the highway. We got to see a variety of landscapes from farms to flat lands. I loved this National Forest and it was the perfect place to drive through for the day. Few people get off the main highways, but when you take a forest road or hike through this area you'll enjoy all the best nature has too offer from great views, fresh air, and wildlife. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as mule deers.

Breathtaking, and as someone who uses a cane, some trails were easy to use, which makes it nice to spend time with family and it not being frustrating for me or them.

This area simply took my breath away. It is gorgeous here. recommended for all families even with small children.

Once you leave the Denver area, it is approximately four hours of driving, but the scenery is absolutely astounding. We really enjoyed the beautiful town of Gunnison and Crested Butte. The Fourth of July parade in Crested Butte is a must-do!

Enjoyed dispersed camping in the Taylor Park area for two weeks. Surprised at the large number of dual sports, dirt bikes and ATVs/UTVs -- we wondered if we had stumbled into a convention or reunion or a meetup of some kind. Great roads nearby for all skill levels of riders. All riders we saw were polite, respectful and safety-conscious; very family-friendly. Rumors of great fishing in the Taylor Reservoir and area streams and rivers. Dump station nearby for RVs for $6; potable water available at nearby Taylor trading post, as well as basic groceries and non-ethanol fuel. Restaurant at trading post, but we did not eat there. Horseback riding at nearby Harmel's Ranch Resort an extra plus. Hiking available locally, as well.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is breathtaking. We even saw some two American Eagles flying at bottom which ranger pointed out to us. Great time to go because very quiet since most kids back in school.

Fantastic getaway with the teens! Lots of activities. Whitewater Rafting, fishing, hiking and best of all no phone service! Great place to hang out and unplug without the kids getting to bored!