The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is all about natural beauty and the power of nature. This dramatic canyon displays parts of the earth that are nearly two billion years old. From the rim to the current surface of the Gunnison River is over a half a mile deep. It has taken over two million years for the river to cut through the rock to leave what is seen today. To put that in some perspective, in the time period that humans have existed on this planet, the canyon would have been cut about five feet deep out of the over 2500 feet depth that exists today.
For those interested in geology, the lighter tan sections of the generally dark stone rocks where formed when molten rock was forced into fissures in the existing structure leaving the lighter bands you see today. This occurred over a billion years ago.
We did the south rim drive with numerous overlooks and lots of hiking trails to explore. It is considered to be one of the most dramatic canyons in the USA.
When visiting this part of the country, it is a must see park.
http://www.nps.gov/blca/
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