Travel Mazes: A Journey to 8 National Parks (Day 1 & 2 - May 23rd, 2025 - May 24th, 2025 ); Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Life is challenging, and 2025 has not been easy. That’s why we all need moments to take care of ourselves and do the things we love. For the past few months, I had been planning a much-needed escape: a road trip to visit at least eight national parks in 9–10 days. Finally, the day arrived.

By May 23, 2025, I was fully packed and ready. I left Lincoln around 10 a.m. and arrived at Dillon Reservoir in Colorado around 6 p.m. Because of the Memorial Day holiday, most campsites were booked, but I was lucky to find a one-night spot at Pine Cove Campground for $29. I only had $27 in cash, and the host kindly accepted it—he even declined the extra $2 in quarters I offered. After setting up camp, I went to bed early to rest for the long drive ahead.

At sunrise, I packed up, made coffee, and hit the road again. My GPS estimated a 3-hour, 44-minute drive to the North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—my first National Park during this trip. The Colorado drive was stunning. One of the most scenic spots was the North Fork Gunnison River—definitely a place to revisit and spend more time there.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (1)

I arrived at the North Rim just before 11 a.m. The last 15 miles were narrow roads, with the final 5 on gravel. I chose the North Rim based on a quick Google search, which offers more hiking trails. There’s no visitor center, just a ranger station, which was closed, but it had Wi-Fi and signs explaining fees, permits, and entry instructions.

Fortunately, I secured a camping spot at the North Rim Campground. While using the ranger station's Wi-Fi to pay, I met a ranger who was checking on permits. He told me that 95% of visitors go to the South Rim because it's more family-friendly and more accessible. He also helped me get a free wilderness permit, which made me change plans—I gave my reserved site to a nearby family, who were thrilled. The woman even ran to claim the spot before someone else could take it.

After packing my gear, I hit the trail and reached Green Mountain SE in 1 hour and 52 minutes (4.26 miles). The view was incredible. I spent time at the summit enjoying snacks, a Dr. Pepper, a nap, and even cutting my nails. I met a few hikers—one was a friend of the woman who got my campground spot. She thanked me and invited me to hike and have dinner with them, but I had other plans. The hike up to the Green Mountain was amazing, and I took so many photos of the wilderness and not to mention all the beautiful, colorful flowers.

Due to strong winds, I decided not to camp on Green Mountain. On the way down, I discovered a breathtaking viewpoint called "The Overlook" and chose it as my campsite. A few hikers passed by and asked me to take their photos. Jokingly, I told them I charge $5 per photo since I was camping there!

The sunset was stunning. I was alone in a remote part of the canyon, immersed in silence, birdsong, and nature’s presence. It was a moment of true peace.