Warner Route

Overview

This is Black Canyon’s South Rim rim‑to‑river experience: a designated inner‑canyon wilderness route, not a constructed trail. It drops from the High Point area to the Gunnison River through extremely steep, loose terrain. A wilderness permit is required for day use or overnight, and pets are not allowed. Treat all water—giardia is present.

What the Route Is Like

You’ll start along the Warner Point Nature Trail before turning onto the unmaintained descent. Expect roughly 4.3 miles round‑trip for many parties (some report up to ~7 miles depending on where you measure and how you wander), with about 2,700 feet of elevation loss to the river in roughly 1.6–2 miles one way. The grade is punishing, footing is loose, and navigation matters; this is a wilderness route with minimal to no signage. At the bottom, you’ll reach a quiet stretch of the Gunnison River and a designated riverside campsite area—fantastic solitude and classic, sheer‑walled Black Canyon drama at water level. Anglers time trips with the Salmonfly hatch.

Difficulty and Timing

This is for very fit, experienced hikers comfortable with unmaintained, very steep terrain. Many hikers find the descent serious and the climb back out a true grind. Plan on a full‑value day: about 6–8 hours total is common, with the ascent often taking longer than the descent. Trekking poles and real boots pay off.

Permits, Water, and Safety

• Inner‑canyon wilderness permit required (day or overnight); secure it before you head to the trailhead and carry it.
• Treat/purify all water. Do not drink straight from the river.
• No pets in the inner‑canyon wilderness.
• This is loose, exposed terrain with route‑finding—bring the tools and skills to navigate, and pack light for the climb.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through early fall is the practical window. Summer can be hot and exposed on the rim—start at first light for cooler temps and better parking. Avoid winter and early spring when snow and ice can make the route dangerous. Early summer is prime for anglers targeting the Salmonfly hatch.

Logistics and Crowd Tips

Park at High Point at the end of South Rim Drive. The lot can fill on weekends—arrive before 9 a.m. The upper approach on the nature trail is straightforward; once you leave it, the character shifts quickly to steep, primitive wilderness. If you decide the route feels over your head, turning around early is the right call.

Should You Hike It?

If you want maximum solitude, geologic spectacle, and a raw rim‑to‑river challenge, this route delivers. If exposure, loose footing, and relentless climbing aren’t your thing, stick to the rim overlooks or the Warner Point Nature Trail for superb views without the hardship.