If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a look at what they have to offer in terms of hiking and wildlife, plus what the best time of year to visit might be.
Let’s get started with an overview of Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Overview
- 2 Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Overview
- 3 Hiking At National Parks
- 4 Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Hiking Trails
- 5 Hiking Overview at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
- 6 Wildlife at Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
- 7 Wildlife at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
- 8 What’s the best time to visit?
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Overview
Big enough to be overwhelming, still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park exposes you to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. With two million years to work, the Gunnison River, along with the forces of weathering, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Overview
Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site—one of the world’s largest international protected areas. From sea to summit, Glacier Bay offers limitless opportunities for adventure and inspiration.
Hiking At National Parks
Most national parks have some of the best hiking trails you’ll find anywhere in the US.
If you’re planning to take along your furry friend, double-check the rules before you go – as many of the parks have different rules about bringing animals along with you.
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Hiking Trails
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering something for everyone from easy, scenic walks to challenging multi-day treks. Some of the most popular trails include the Chasm View Nature Trail, which offers stunning views of the Black Canyon; the Warner Point Nature Trail, which leads to a viewing platform overlooking the Gunnison River; and the Soapstone Nature Trail, which winds through a forest of aspen trees. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Black Canyon Trail offers a strenuous 16-mile round trip that takes hikers down into the Black Canyon itself. Regardless of your hiking experience or fitness level, Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park has a trail that’s perfect for you.
Best Hikes At Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gunnison Point Overlook | 23.7744 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Rim Rock Nature Trail | 56.9976 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Warner Route | 924.7632 | 7 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cedar Point Nature Trail | 4.8768 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Dragon Point Trail | 17.9832 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| High Point Trail | 9.7536 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| East Portal Trail | 5.7912 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Pulpit Rock Overlook Trail | 4.8768 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Cross Fissures Trail | 34.7472 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devils Lookout Trail | 19.812 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
Hiking Overview at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the world. Located in Alaska, Glacier Bay is home to more than 100 glaciers, as well as an abundance of wildlife. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which hiking trail to take. However, there are a few trails that stand out above the rest. The Upper Muir Inlet Trail is considered to be the easiest hike in Glacier Bay, and it offers stunning views of glaciers and mountains. For a more challenging hike, try the Abra Windy Trail, which ascent nearly 3,000 feet in just over three miles. Glacier Bay is an incredible place for nature lovers, and these hiking trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bartlett Cove Forest Loop Trail | 33.8328 | 1 | loop | 4.5 |
| Bartlett River Trail | 266.7 | 1 | out and back | 3 |
| Bartlet Lake Trail | 141.732 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Tlingit Trail | 19.812 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Point Gustavus | 117.9576 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
Wildlife at Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife. You can expect to see animals such as bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, coyotes, and red-tailed hawks. Plant life includes scrub oak, pinyon pine, juniper, and sagebrush. The variety of wildlife and vegetation creates a habitat that is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife photography. So come on down to Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park and get up close and personal with the amazing wildlife that calls this place home.
Wildlife at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Glacier Bay National Park is home to an amazing array of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see everything from grizzly bears and bald eagles to seals and whales. There are also a variety of plant species to be found in the park, including Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and lodgepole pine. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Glacier Bay National Park also offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and ocean. Whether you’re looking for a chance to spot some rare animals or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery, Glacier Bay National Park is sure to exceed your expectations.
What’s the best time to visit?
A lot of times, weather can dictate when it makes the most sense to visit a particular national park.
Plus, depending on the types of activities you’re hoping to take part in, seasonality will be a huge factor in whether those things are even available.
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Weather Considerations
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the United States. The canyon is extremely deep and narrow, and the views are simply stunning. However, the weather at Black Canyon can be quite extreme, and it’s important to know what to expect before you visit.
The best time to visit Black Canyon is during the spring or fall. The weather is milder during these months, and there are usually fewer crowds. However, if you’re planning on doing any hiking, be aware that the trails can be very icy in the spring.
The worst time to visit Black Canyon is during the summer. It can be incredibly hot in the canyon, and there is very little shade. If you do decide to visit during the summer, make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Weather Considerations
Glacier Bay National Park is a place of extremes. In the summer, temperatures can reach up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter they can drop as low as -40 degrees. However, the park is beautiful at all times of year. In the spring, Glacier Bay is a haven for migratory birds, and wildflowers blanket the landscape. Summer is the best time for hiking and kayaking, and in the fall, the leaves of the trees turn a stunning array of colors. Winter is Glacier Bay’s quietest season, when snow dusts the landscape and ice floes float in the bay. No matter when you visit, Glacier Bay National Park is sure to take your breath away.