Take just a few minutes for a walk to visit the Pulpit Rock Overlook when you’re in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It is one of several viewpoints along the south rim of the Black Canyon, but no others are as short or easy as this popular trail named by a preacher who thought the rock resembled his church pulpit. At just 0.1 mile (0.2 kilometers) round-trip, this mini hike reaps maximum rewards.
The Black Canyon area is filled with steep cliffs, craggy peaks and ancient, weather-sculpted rock formations. From the Pulpit Rock Overlook, enjoy great views of the rocky scenery, the deep canyon walls and the Gunnison River below. For the most striking view, look upstream.
This trail is generally less crowded than others within the park, such as the more popular Painted Wall Overlook. Combine Chasm View and Painted Wall, also along the South Rim, with Pulpit Rock to fully capture the canyon’s grandeur.
Follow another short path at Chasm View for a look at one of the steepest parts of the canyon, with cliffs measuring 1,820 feet (555 meters). From here, Painted Wall is a short distance away and is one of the tallest cliffs in Colorado at 2,250 feet (686 meters) high.
Stop at the South Rim Visitor Center, open all year, to learn about the area’s hiking trails, history and geology from staff rangers and exhibits. The center offers maps, a park film, a bookstore and a junior ranger program for visitors. Purchase a national parks passport and get a stamp showing that you were here.
Find Pulpit Rock Overlook in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in southwest Colorado. Pulpit Rock is located along the Rim Drive Road. The trail is best used from May until November. Pay the national park weekly or annual entrance fee to access this short and interesting trail.
