Shooting Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Recent trip to Colorado took me to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park just outside Montross. Ended up there in mid-late morning. The Black Canyon is a shooting challenge in that it has a vertical drop of 2700 feet at max and a narrow of 1/4 mile. You read that right. Extreme wide angle is necessary or be prepared to "stitch" vertical panoramas (like I have to do....only carry a 18mm) if you want small sky/rim/river. Early AM or late PM is not advantageous as the "Black" of the Black Canyon is accentuated.

Drive is along south rim but the overlooks are points that can generally view east or west and even back to the southeast. Lots of high contrast called for multiple exposures to be merged in post process. Note I did not necessarily say HDR, but depending on preference that can be pursued.

My favorite overlook was "Painted Walls". Interesting elements and the lightening was a nice mixture of cross light and full. Good saturation of colors.

If in Montross there are several cheaper hotels on east Main street (US 50). "Horsefly Mini Brewery" is a good "locals" drinking and eating spot on Main. "Camp Robber" on the south end of town on Thompson (US 550) is the "high end" restaurant in town but still casual. Really fresh, good food with a fairly large wine list.

Hope this helps anyone venturing to Southwest Colorado.