Rim Rock Nature Trail Is A Colorado Hike That Has An Amazing Payoff

Colorado is known worldwide for its incredible multi-day hikes and mountain climbs, but if you are anything like me, you may need something a bit (or a lot) easier, like a short trail with incredible scenery. Agree? Then follow me to the short yet oh-so-sweet Rim Rock Nature Trail near Montrose, Colorado:

Tucked away inside of the stunning Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the Rim Rock Nature Trail is a low-key, 1.5-mile out-and-back trail that may not sound like much but is packed full of Only in Colorado surprises! 

AllTrails/Oliver B.

Located within the South Rim section of the Black Canyon, the Rim Rock trailhead can be accessed via the south end of the Visitor Center parking area and features a designated, easy-to-travel path that is perfect for the entire family.

AllTrails/Mike May

Keep your eyes peeled during your hike, as you may spot anything from colorful wildflowers to native wildlife. 

Flickr/Tom Wilberding

While the landscape surrounding the trail is reason enough to visit, the star of the show is the jaw-dropping views of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, which can be enjoyed throughout the hike.

AllTrails/Griffin H

Boasting some of the oldest rock, most precipitous cliffs, and craggiest spires in North America, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is 48 miles long and houses its namesake Gunnison River, which drops an average 34 feet per mile throughout the entire Canyon.

Flickr/Kim Olson

If you thought the Grand Canyon was grand, wait until you get a load of the Black Canyon!

AllTrails/Griffin H

Please note: There are a few rocky steps to maneuver along the trail, so practice caution during your hike. 

AllTrails/Bee Jay

To learn more about the Rim Rock Nature Trail and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, please visit the National Park Service’s website.

AllTrails/Laura Hill

Which easy Colorado trail is your favorite? Let us know in the comments or via our nomination form! For even more of our favorite Only in Colorado hikes, click on This One Easy Hike In Colorado Will Lead You Someplace Unforgettable.

AllTrails/Oliver B.

AllTrails/Mike May

Flickr/Tom Wilberding

AllTrails/Griffin H

Flickr/Kim Olson

AllTrails/Bee Jay

AllTrails/Laura Hill

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Address: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, USA