Black Canyon

Managing agency

GMUG NF — Ouray RD

Black Canyon is a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado that offers a compact hiking experience with 206 feet of elevation gain. The trail provides an accessible option for hikers seeking a shorter outing with moderate elevation change, making it suitable for a variety of fitness levels. The trail is situated in the Black Canyon wilderness area and is managed by the designated managing agency for the region. The out-and-back route allows hikers to turn around at any point, providing flexibility in how much distance they want to cover. With less than two miles of total distance, this trail works well for those with limited time or looking for a warm-up hike before tackling longer routes in the area. The elevation gain of 206 feet is distributed across the 1.6-mile distance, creating a moderate grade that's neither overly strenuous nor flat. This makes Black Canyon a good option for building hiking fitness or enjoying a quick outdoor excursion near Colorado.