Gunnison sits at the crossroads of some of the most diverse climbing on Colorado's Western Slope, with two very different destinations within easy reach. Hartman Rocks spreads across the high desert sagebrush just outside town . A sprawling collection of granite domes with featured rock, quartz crystals, and chickenhead holds that make for memorable climbing across a wide range of grades. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park sits a couple hours west, where ancient walls drop thousands of feet into one of the most dramatic gorges in North America. To the south in Lake City lies the San Juan Mountains with a huge ice park as well as backcountry ice climbs.

The two areas couldn't be more different in character. Hartman Rocks is open, sunny, and approachable. One of the best summer and fall climbing destinations in the state for those building outdoor skills or exploring climbing for the first time. Black Canyon is committing, serious, and unlike anything else in Colorado. It's a destination that demands respect and rewards experienced climbers who come prepared with a guide who knows the walls.

Gunnison itself is a classic Colorado mountain town sitting between Crested Butte to the north and Lake City to the south, making it an easy base for a broader San Juan mountain climbing trip. Colorado Climbing Company's mountain guides know both areas well and can help you make the most of everything the Gunnison region has to offer.