Hikes/United States/Colorado/Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Balanced Rock View Trail

Difficulty
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Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
0.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
41 m
User Ratings
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The Balancing Rock View Trail leads to a lookout over the south walls of the Black Canyon. Enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas from the cliffs-edge viewing area and keep an eye out for hikers below! Don’t forget to peer through the overlook’s gate to get an up close and personal view of the Balancing Rock.

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Route Description for Balanced Rock View Trail

The Balancing Rock View Trail is a short hike out to a spectacular viewpoint. Though the viewing area is fenced in, other ledges in the surrounding area are not. Ensure that you and your party maintain on the marked trail for the entirety of the hike.

The Balancing Rock View Hike is a quick walk from the parking area to the overlook. From the parking lot, track south along the dirt path as it descends to the lookout. From the overlook enjoy panoramic sights of the Black Canyon and the Gunnison River below. The Balancing Rock is located just over the viewing area. Look through the fence down to the gigantic boulder that appears to be balancing on the cliff's edge.

When you are done exploring the vista, simply retrace your steps back to the carpark.

Getting to the Balanced Rock View Trail Trailhead

The Balancing Rock View Trail is located off of the North Rim Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

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