Over 2 million years, erosion carved the 1800’ of vertical cliff from the rim. The park is named for John Gunnison, who discovered the gorge in 1850 when seeking a Pacific railroad passage.
I reached the park just 90 minutes after landing in Montrose. Over three hours, I hiked several trails and drove the rim road to see the overlooks. At 8200’ elevation and with not too much climbing, I seldom felt the altitude.
Today’s hiking summary:
4.67 miles / 1h 58m / 1000‘ gain