Tomichi Point is the first viewpoint of the Black Canyon along the South Rim Road. Make this your initial stop during your visit to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
If you’re here for easy access to an incredible view, you’re in luck because the viewpoint is right at the parking area. More adventurous hikers can tackle the steep trail to the river or pick up the Rim Rock Trail, which runs right through this viewpoint.
You’ll need a permit, sturdy hiking boots and gloves if you plan to follow the strenuous Tomichi Point Trail into the inner canyon. Used by hikers, trail runners, nature lovers and anglers to explore and reach Black Canyon, the Tomichi Point Trail is the steepest one you’ll find along the South Rim, with an elevation change of 1,788 feet (545 meters). This 1.3-mile (2-kilometer), lightly trafficked trail has hazards of loose rock and full sun exposure. That said, the trail is significantly less crowded than the nearby Gunnison Route.
Start at the Tomichi Point Overlook and plan on about 2 hours or more to drop down to the river. Along the way, you’ll get an incredible view of the sheer walls of the Black Canyon, carved out by the Gunnison River over 2 million years. When you reach the canyon bottom, you’ll find a rocky riverbank, perfect for exploring.
Access the Rim Rock Trail from the Overlook, picking up a trail guide for information about the vegetation and geology of the area. The full trail runs from the South Rim Visitor Center to the campground, with Tomichi Point at the midpoint.
Combine your stop at Tomichi Point with a visit to the nearby South Rim Visitor Center. Rangers and exhibits will inform your sightseeing, offering suggestions for hiking and teaching you about millions of years of the ancient rock, craggy spires, rivers and cliffs within the park. The popular Gunnison Point Overlook starts from the visitor center.
Find Tomichi Point along the South Rim Road and the trailhead at post #13 on the Rim Rock Trail. There is a fee for entry to the national park.
