East Portal Road at Black Canyon of the Gunnison: what applies in 2026?

Direct answer

East Portal Road - winter closure and 22-foot vehicle limit

Exact conditions

Status: Not required; the stated access rule still applies
Applies to: vehicles
Place or corridor: East Portal Road, South Rim
Effective dates: January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Release model: unpublished

Exceptions and limits

Vehicles over 22 feet, trailers included, are prohibited year-round.
Grades reach 16%.

Official source

National Park Service · reviewed August 27, 2026

The road is closed in winter, typically from November to April. ... Vehicles over 22 feet--trailers included--are prohibited on the East Portal Road. ... In a few places, the road is a 16% grade.

East Portal Road - Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park