Today, I drove the south rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Upon entering the National Park, I could go straight, to see the overlooks and the Visitor Center, or head the other direction which went to the bottom of the gorge. The ranger warned me that although the roads are good, the grade is 16% and so quite steep. The payoff was great though.

On the way down, the colors were gorgeous and vibrant.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado.

The river is running clean, the fish were jumping, and the light was getting long. It was fairly quiet there, too. There weren’t a lot of people.

Gunnison River. Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado.

I love these things. They’re not too special, but I got a good shot.

Make a Wish

I went further up the road and was able to take a shot looking the other direction.

Gunnison River. Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado.

More little plants and a bug behind.

This was just interesting.

This bug was so pretty, but by the time I saw him and got focused on him, he turned shy and then flew away.

Shy bug.

The bug was not the only shy critter I focused on today. This deer was not too happy about my stopping and was getting ready to run.

Deer. Black Canyon of the Gunnision, Colorado.

I had a really nice day. I took more pictures on the top, then got some sunset and sundog shots outside of Montrose.

What a pretty place to live.