Gunnison

Gunnison is a home rule municipality and the county seat of Gunnison County, Colorado, United States. It is located in the western part of the state in the Rocky Mountains, along the Gunnison River, at an elevation of about 7,700 feet (2,350 meters). The city sits on U.S. Highway 50 and lies near the historic railroad corridors that connected the region with other parts of Colorado.

The community was named for John W. Gunnison, a U.S. Army topographic engineer who was killed in 1853 while surveying routes through the area. Settlement grew in the late 19th century with mining, ranching, and railroad development, and Gunnison later became the county seat.

Today, Gunnison serves as a regional hub for education, government, and outdoor recreation. It is home to Western Colorado University, which offers undergraduate and graduate programs and contributes to the town’s cultural and economic life. The surrounding area provides access to notable natural attractions, including the Curecanti National Recreation Area along the Gunnison River, Blue Mesa Reservoir, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, making the region a popular destination for fishing, hiking, and winter sports in nearby Crested Butte.

The Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport serves the area with regional flights, complementing road access via major highways. The local economy is supported by tourism, education, healthcare, and public services. Gunnison maintains a small-town character with a regional draw for outdoor enthusiasts and students alike.