Are you looking for something fun and inexpensive to do with the family this coming weekend? Why not visit your local national park? The weekend of August 15 and 16 is the last of three fee free weekends at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for the summer.

According to Superintendent Connie Rudd, “We’re inviting you to come by for a visit, to relax, to learn a little bit about your local national park…and to just have some fun. This is the last of the fee free weekends for the season, but you are invited to join us whenever you can fit it into your busy schedule!

What is there to do once you get there? Viewpoints along the South Rim Drive provide breathtaking photo opportunities. Short hiking trails give you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air. See the movie in the visitor center, browse the bookstore or just chat with a ranger. There are many other activities available. For more information, call the South Rim Visitor Center at (970) 249-1914, ext. 423.

Nearby, Curecanti National Recreation Area, between Montrose and Gunnison on Highway 50, has lots of things going on as well. Though there is no entry fee at any time, it too is a great place to enjoy your weekends.

There is one more moonlight hike at Dillon Pinnacles on September 5. For more information, or to sign up for that moonlight hike, call the visitor center at (970) 641-2337, ext. 205. The Morrow Point Boat Tour departs every day except Tuesday, through Labor Day. Tour times are 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $16, children $8, Adults with Senior Pass or Access Pass $8. Prepaid reservations are required for the boat tour and may be made by calling the visitor center as well.