The Black Canyon In My Own Backyard!

Dear Isaac, Maia and Virtual Travelers,

It takes maybe 20 minutes to get from my driveway to the South Rim Campground at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. I wanted to get one trip in before June, and this was low-hanging fruit. Late starts don’t matter when you are staying close to home.

Evening light at Black Canyon of the Gunnison Rim Rock Trail.

The Three Amigas accompany me on this dog-friendly trail.

I call my spring and early summer camping trips “samplers” because we only stay 2 nights. But, honestly, most weekend camping trips in my days before retiring from my nursing career were about the same. Leave Friday evening, and return Sunday afternoon. The difference now is that I can go anytime M-F and miss the crowds.

Koko, my chihuahua rescue, is eager to see what is next (and for a treat).

Cimarron, my Italian Greyhuahua rescue, is enjoying the sights and smells of summer.

The Three Amigas stop to catch their breath on the trail.

Our big adventure was the Rim Rock Trail from the campground to the Visitor’s Center. It is dog-friendly and wasn’t overly hot yet. It is an absolutely stunning hike and was just the right length for us senior gals. We walked home via the road to save time because it was time to eat lunch.

Views from the Rim Rock Trail near the Visitor’s Center.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

It was a mellow trip. I read my Kindle books under a tree, flanked by the Three Amigas. Perfect trip for my freshly broken toe and to kick off the camping season. The sites have nice shaded areas. I am grateful to be this close to such a wonderful National Park. The only word of caution is that the black rock is very hard so walking with a broken bone in a toe needs to be limited. It’s harder than cement!