Contact Info
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812
- Phone:
- 406-243-6933
Description
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness now contains a total of 15,599 acres and is managed by the National Park Service. All of the wilderness is in the state of Colorado.
Public land becomes wilderness through legislation passed by the United States Congress in the form of public laws. For the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness, this process began in 1976 when 11,180 acres were designated by Public Law 94-567. The following public laws also affect the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness: 106-76.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness is part of the 106 million acre National Wilderness Preservation System. This System of wild lands contributes significantly to the ecological, economic, and social health of our country. Wilderness provides clean air and water, a shelter for endangered species, sacred places for indigenous peoples, a living laboratory for research, and a classroom for exploring personal values while experiencing risk, reward, and self-reliance. In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities like hiking, backpacking, climbing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, horse packing, bird watching, stargazing, and extraordinary opportunities for solitude.
Details
Additional Details:
Unless otherwise specified, no motorized equipment or mechanical transport is allowed. This is true for all federal lands managed as designated wilderness.
Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
