Black Canyon of the Gunnison in September: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

Peak crowds · VisitWhen score 60/100 · #10 of 12 months

September is peak season — expect the year's biggest crowds at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: crowds run 98% of the June peak (47,222 average visits), days average 72°F with 12.5 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Crowds in September

Black Canyon of the Gunnison averages 47,222 recreation visits in September — 98% of what June, the peak month, draws. Plan lodging and entries with that in mind — book early and start days at dawn.

Weather & daylight

Daytime temperatures are comfortable (highs average 72°F), and mornings are chilly (lows average 44°F). Average precipitation is 2.1″ for the month. Mid-month daylight runs 12.5 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON, CO US (2 mi from park coordinates, 8,151 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of September.

What to pack for Black Canyon of the Gunnison in September

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

• Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy) — mornings average 44°F
• Packable rain jacket — 2.1″ of precipitation is normal this month
• Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month

Looking for a better window? The computed best months for Black Canyon of the Gunnison are March and April.

Common questions

See also: the best national parks to visit in September · Last verified 2026-07-16