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| Looking out over the Canyon |
This past weekend we went backpacking in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This park just put me in a state of awe. It is not like any canyon I have ever seen. The rock is really dark, the deepness and sharpness adds a lot of character. You look out over the canyon and you feel like you are trying to figure out an optical illusion! What an experience!
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| A view of part of the canyon on the hike down |
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| Hiking Down |
We happened to win the lottery for a permit into the canyon for a backpacking trip. Depending on where you access the canyon from you don't have to have a permit but we came in from the Red Rock Canyon trail. Its a good hike down into the canyon, but we knew that and were prepared. With lots of water in our packs and plenty of snacks we made our way down to the bottom of the canyon. The trail was filled with rocky edges, plenty of steep sections and lots of poison ivy! It is also filled with beautiful views of the canyon, a creek that is calm at points and rushing at others, lots of luscious trees and plenty of rocks to sit and take everything in.
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| The river and sun streaming through |
What an experience! Lots of bonding to be had as you work your way to the bottom of the canyon. After a few hours of hiking we made it to the bottom. A gorgeous river and sunlight streaming through the canyon walls greeted us upon our arrival. We quickly set up camp, made some dinner and, and relaxed as we watched the sun set in the canyon. I don't think any of us had a problem sleeping! The morning greeted us with a crisp canyon air and lots of sunlight. We made our way down to the river and hiked a little around the area, although with the river rushing like it was, there was not too much space along the bank to walk. When it was finally time to make our way out of the canyon, we packed our gear and headed out. Even though we were hiking up, the time seemed to slip by as we made our way out of the canyon!
