When most Americans think of canyons, their mind goes straight to the Grand Canyon, leading many to assume that this Arizona ravine is the only one in the country. Fortunately, this is not the case, as Colorado is home to some impressive canyons of its own, including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, which looks even more beautiful this snowy time of year:

Located on the Western Slope, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an incredible 48-mile-long gorge that houses that equally spectacular Gunnison River. 
TripAdvisor/Fei L
Named for the fact that the Gunnison River drops an average 34 feet per mile throughout the entire Black Canyon (the fifth steepest descent in the country), the Black Canyon is said to house some of the oldest rock, most precipitous cliffs, and craggiest spires in North America.
Gernot Keller/Wikimedia Commons
Do you still think that the Grand Canyon (pictured) is the grandest in America? While the Gunnison River drops an average of 34 feet per mile, the Colorado River - which runs through the Grand Canyon - only drops an average of 7.5 feet per mile! 
Chensiyuan/Wikimedia Commons

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How does one explore the Black Canyon of the Gunnison? It is easy to do, thanks to the many trails spread across the north and south rims. 
TripAdvisor/Alexej-SW
While most think only to visit the Black Canyon during the summer months, they are missing out, as the giant canyon looks even more stunning when covered in a blanket of snow. 
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Please note: Certain parts of the Black Canyon may be closed due to snow and dangerous road conditions, so be sure to visit the National Park Service's website before you go. 
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The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. Admission for a single day is $25 per vehicle. 
TripAdvisor/Sggypsy

Have you had a chance to visit this beautiful canyon during the winter? Tell us about your experience in the comments! For even more must-visit Colorado canyons, check out these 6 Little Known Canyons That Will Show You A Side Of Colorado You’ve Never Seen Before.

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Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, USA