Bears have made amazing efforts to obtain hikers' snacks. A bear that becomes habituated to humans and their food will ultimately need to be destroyed. Keep your backpack within arms reach at all times. The hike into the canyon and back up is very strenuous. Bring high energy foods and at least 4 quarts of water per person per day. Giardia is in all water sources, including the river, therefore all water must be purified. Sturdy hiking boots are an absolute must due to the unstable terrain covered in loose talus and scree. Leave your sandals and low cut running shoes in the car. Always pack in rain gear, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Walking Along the River The mileages listed as "River Access" are the maximum distance available to a hiker along the river at low water levels (300-350 cubic feet per second). Wading in the cold river (50F) is hazardous and not recommended, and at levels above 450-500 CFS the combination of high, swift water and cold temperatures increases the danger.

Rocks along the shore can be moss encrusted and very slick. Many individuals have been swept to their death in the Gunnison River. Why can't I have a campfire? Dams upstream prevent a natural flow and cycle of driftwood entering the lower canyon. What little organic debris makes its way through the canyon is a vital resource for the recycling of nutrients back into the riverbank and the earth. If you see an old fire ring, please don't be tempted to use it. Bring a small gas stove for cooking in the inner canyon. Permits, required for all inner canyon activities (including day hikes, climbing, camping and kayaking), are free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are a limited number of permits available daily so arrive early. The Routes in Winter The winter wilderness brings new challenges. Exploration of the backcountry during the winter is at your own risk. Winter hikers attempting the inner canyon routes should be prepared with snowshoes, crampons, an ice axe, and possibly a rope.

Most of the South Rim routes are snow covered from November to April. In light snow years, North Rim routes can be snow free as early as March. Water is not available at either rim during the winter months, so bring your own. This route is suggested for the first time North Rim inner canyon hiker. S.O.B. Draw is famous for its abundant poison ivy. Long pants are recommended. Park vehicles in the pull through near the campground registration board, or at the North Rim Ranger Station.gear outlander laptop backpack The route begins at the access ladder along the fence line just east of the campground. gregory evolution backpack for saleThis is on the right side of the road when traveling from the ranger station to the campground. backpack black canyon of the gunnison

Follow the path to the top of the drainage gully and descend on the far right of the route. The route has short ledges to climb (8-12 ft/3 m). Campsites are located downstream a short distance. Distance: 1.75 miles (2.8 km) Vertical Drop: 1800 feet (549 m) River Access: 2 miles (3.2 km) Formerly called Devil's Slide, Long Draw brings the hiker into one of the narrowest parts of the canyon where canyon walls tower above the swiftly moving Gunnison River. Park at Balanced Rock Overlook, then walk northeast to the bend in the road. stihl backpack blower costThe descent begins at the road. Pass through a small area of box elder trees at the rim and scramble down the gully to the river. There is plenty of poison ivy along the bottom of this route. The route has short ledges to climb (8-12 ft/3 m). Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) River Access: .25 mile (402 m) This route is extremely steep and the most potentially dangerous due to loose rock and poor footing.

Slide Draw requires a 30 foot climb down to start the route. Park at Kneeling Camel View, then walk east until you reach the head of the draw. Follow the draw to the river, taking extra caution due to the large abundance of loose rocks underfoot. A good camping area is found at the river. Vertical Drop: 1620 feet (494 m) River Access: .75 mile (1.2 km) This is the most popular route, however it is still very strenuous. This route is recommended to persons attempting their first inner-canyon hike. An 80 foot chain is located 1/3 of the way down. This route begins at the South Rim Visitor Center. Follow the Oak Flat Trail for 1/3 mile, down the first few switchbacks. You will come to a sign that says, "River Access. Continue the steep descent to the chain down the drainage. An outhouse and campsites are located a short distance upstream. This route is considered the steepest South Rim route and is very difficult. The entire length is loose rock and receives full sun exposure.

Use extra caution while descending. Use the parking area near the South Rim Campground. Take the Rim Rock Trail (which starts near Loop C) to post #13. This is the start of the Tomichi Route. Descend the route until the junction with another draw is reached. Continue to follow the main drainage down the slope to the river. Vertical Drop: 1960 feet (597 m) Ascent: 4.5 hours (or triple the descent time) River Access: .5 mile (0.8 km) This is the longest route and overnight travel is highly suggested. Campsites are located up and downstream. Hike along the Warner Point Nature Trail and walk up the hill past post #13. Look for a large Utah serviceberry bush on the left that is marked with a small silver sign, titled "Serviceberry Bush." This is the start of the Warner Route. The path leads off to the left. Avoid the first drainage and continue west to the lowest saddle on the ridge before descending. Descent: 2 - 2.5 hours Distance: 2.75 miles (4.4 km) Vertical Drop: 2722 feet (829 m)