Black Canyon of the Gunnison in February: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Shoulder · VisitWhen score 64/100 · #7 of 12 months
February is a solid shoulder-season month to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: crowds run 14% of the June peak (7,018 average visits), days average 40°F with 10.8 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in February
Black Canyon of the Gunnison averages 7,018 recreation visits in February — 14% of what June, the peak month, draws — the quietest month of the year. Trailheads and parking fill accordingly — this is genuine quiet-season territory.
Weather & daylight
Days are cold (highs average 40°F), and nights are frigid (lows average 16°F). It is typically dry (1.7″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 10.8 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 February.
What to pack for Black Canyon of the Gunnison in February
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated parka + thermal base layers — average lows of 16°F
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
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If your dates are flexible, consider shifting: The computed best months for Black Canyon of the Gunnison are March and April.
Also at their best in February
Other parks whose computed February verdict is a best window — same NPS × NOAA formula:
- Zion in February — 25% of peak crowds, highs 58°F, score 80/100
- Shenandoah in February — 9% of peak crowds, highs 47°F, score 77/100
- Capitol Reef in February — 10% of peak crowds, highs 47°F, score 76/100
- Carlsbad Caverns in February — 39% of peak crowds, highs 61°F, score 76/100
Common questions
Is Black Canyon of the Gunnison crowded in February?
No — February is one of the quieter months: 14% of the June peak, averaging 7,018 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Black Canyon of the Gunnison in February?
Average highs of 40°F, lows of 16°F, 1.7″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON, CO US station).
What should I pack for Black Canyon of the Gunnison in February?
Insulated parka + thermal base layers; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in February · Last verified 2026-09-12