Curecanti National Recreation Area

Weather can vary greatly throughout the day. Summer daytime temperatures range between 50° to 90° F (10° to 32° C), nights 40° to 60° F (4° to 15° C). Winter daytime temperatures range between -20° to +40° F (-29° to +4° C), nights -30° to +20° F (-34° to -7° C).

Precipitation is minimal, but afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds are common during the summer. Snow accumulation varies greatly year to year.

Curecanti National Recreation Area is open every day of the year.

EAST PORTAL ROAD

East Portal Road is closed in winter. The road typically closes mid-November and reopens mid-April.

No Fees. Boat permits are extra.

Elk Creek
16 miles west of Gunnison on U.S. Highway 50 on the shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir in treeless, sagebrush, mesa country.
Open: year round (limited services fall to spring)
Sites: 160 (includes 16 walk-in sites and 20 pull-through sites)
Accessible: yes
Water: yes (summer to fall)
Flush toilets: yes (summer to fall)
Vault toilets: yes
Electric hookups: yes, Loop D only
Dump station: yes
Showers: yes (summer only)
Tables/fire grates: yes
Visitor Center: yes
Evening programs: yes (summer only)
Marina: yes (late spring to early fall)
Restaurant: yes (summer only)
Boat ramp: yes
Fish cleaning station: yes
Elevation: 7540

Reservations available: yes, Loops A & D only. All sites in Loops A and D are premium sites and have a maximum 14 consecutive day stay in a 30 day period. Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance.

Fees:
Loops B or C - $12.00 per night ($6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass)
Loop A - $12.00 per night plus $3.00 per night if reserved ($6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass plus $3.00 per night if reserved)
Loop D (electric hookups) - $18.00 per night plus $3.00 per night if reserved ($12.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass plus $3.00 per night if reserved)

Lake Fork
27 miles west of Gunnison on U.S. Highway 50 on the shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir near Blue Mesa Dam. The campground is paved except for walk-in sites.
Open: late spring to fall (limited services at beginning and end of season)
Sites: 90 (includes 5 walk-in sites and 16 pull-through sites)
Accessible: yes
Water: yes
Flush toilets: yes (closed for sewer system repair)
Vault toilets: yes
Electric hookups: no
Dump station: yes (closed for sewer system repair)
Showers: yes (closed for sewer system repair)
Tables/fire grates: yes
Visitor Center: yes (open intermittently in summer)
Evening programs: yes
Marina: yes
Restaurant: no
Boat ramp: yes
Fish cleaning station: yes (closed for sewer system repair)
Elevation: 7580

Reservations will not be available until sewer system repairs are completed.

Limited amenity fees: $6.00 per night ($3.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass)

Stevens Creek
12 miles west of Gunnison on U.S. Highway 50 on the shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir in treeless, sagebrush, mesa country.
Open: mid-May to fall
Sites: 53
Accessible: yes
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Electric hookups: no
Dump station: no
Showers: no
Tables/fire grates: yes
Visitor Center: no
Evening programs: no
Marina: no
Restaurant: no
Boat ramp: yes
Fish cleaning station: yes
Elevation: 7540

Reservations available: yes, Loop A only. All sites in Loop A are premium sites and have a maximum 14 consecutive day stay in a 30 day period. Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance.

Fees: $12.00 per night plus $3.00 per night if reserved ($6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass plus $3.00 per night if reserved)

Cimarron
20 miles east of Montrose on U.S. Highway 50, located in the vicinity of a historic narrow gauge railroad town, Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad exhibits, and access to Crystal Reservoir near Morrow Point Dam.
Open: spring to fall
Sites: 21 (includes 5 pull-through sites)
Accessible: yes
Water: yes
Flush toilets: yes
Vault toilets: no
Electric hookups: no
Dump station: yes
Showers: no
Tables/fire grates: yes
Visitor Center: yes (open intermittently in summer)
Evening programs: no
Marina: no
Restaurant: no
Boat ramp: no
Fish cleaning station: no
Elevation: 6895

Reservations available: no

Fees: $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass

East Portal
Located 2 miles below Crystal Dam at the bottom of Black Canyon. Take CO Highway 347 6 miles north from the junction of 347 and U.S. Highway 50 to entrance of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Turn right just past the entrance station, and follow East Portal Road 5 miles down to the campground.

Note: Vehicles exceeding 22 feet in length (including trailer) are not permitted on the East Portal Road because of the steep 16% grade and sharp, narrow curves.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park entrance fee applies to those accessing East Portal.

The campground is shaded by box elder trees, is located near the historic Gunnison River Diversion Tunnel, and is immediately east of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park boundary.

Open: spring to fall
Sites: 15
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes

Reservations available: no

Fees: $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass

Dry Gulch
Just north of U.S. Highway 50, 17 miles west of Gunnison. The campground is shaded by large cottonwood trees.
Open: spring to fall
Sites: 9
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes
Horse corral: yes

Reservations available: no

Fees: $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass

Ponderosa
Located at the northwest end of the Soap Creek Arm of Blue Mesa Reservoir. From U.S. Highway 50, follow CO Highway 92 1/2 mile past Blue Mesa Dam to Soap Creek Road. Proceed 7 miles north on the gravel Soap Creek Road.

Note: During dry conditions, the first 7 miles of Soap Creek Road are passable to trailers and motor homes. Rain can make the Soap Creek Road hazardous or impassable.

Open: spring to fall
Sites: 28
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes
Boat ramp: yes
Fish cleaning station: no
Horse corral: yes

Reservations available: no

Fees: $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass

Gateview
Located in a deep, narrow canyon at the extreme south end of the Lake Fork Arm of Blue Mesa Reservoir. Take CO Highway 149 7 miles west of Powderhorn, then 6 miles north on the gravel Blue Mesa Cutoff Road.

Open: spring to fall
Sites: 6
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes

Reservations available: no

Fees: Free

Red Creek (Individual and Group Campground)
Located 19 miles west of Gunnison just north of U.S. Highway 50. The sites are located among large cottonwood trees. The group site can accomodate 20 people. Photo »

Open: spring to fall
Sites: 2 individual sites and 1 group site
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes

Reservations: the group site is available by reservation only. Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance. Reservations are not available for individual sites.

Fees:
Individual sites - $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass
Group site - $28.00 per night

East Elk Creek (Group Campground)
Located 16.5 miles west of Gunnison just north of U.S. Highway 50. The site is located among large cottonwood trees. Accommodates a total of 50 people.

Open: spring to fall
Sites: 1 group site
Accessible: no
Water: yes
Flush toilets: no
Vault toilets: yes
Tables/fire grates: yes
Picnic shelter: yes

Reservations: yes, available by reservation only. Reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance.

Fee: $53.00 per night

Curecanti offers the hiker diversity of habitat, scenic vistas, wildlife and wildflowers. Trails are available for all ability levels.

Pets are permitted on all trails, but must be leashed at all times.

NEVERSINK
The Neversink trail is located nearest to Gunnison on the north bank of the Gunnison River near a Great Blue Heron rookery. This streamside habitat with its heavy undergrowth of grasses, flowers, cottonwoods, and willows, is ideal for birdwatching or just a quiet stroll.

* Length: 1.5 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: easy
This trail is flat and provides easy walking. It is also wheel chair accessible.
* Directions: off Hwy 50, 5 miles west of Gunnison


DILLON PINNACLES
Ascending through sagebrush, ponderosa pine and riparian habitats, this trail offers spectacular views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the distant San Juan Mountain peaks, and the weirdly eroded volcanic Dillon Pinnacles. Along the trail are a few shady places to rest and open sunny vistas with possible glimpses of bighorn sheep. Horses permitted. Interpretative signs explain geologic history.

Benches are provided. Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person.

* Length: 4 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: moderately strenuous; 600ft ascent.
* Directions: off Hwy 50, 6 miles west of Elk Creek Visitor Center.


PINE CREEK
Follow the beautiful Pine Creek as it cascades into the depths of the upper Black Canyon to Morrow Point Reservoir. Then take a walk along the old narrow gauge railroad bed along the reservoir. Learn the history of the area by reading the interpretive signs on the trail. Be sure to check for ticks during the hot summer months.

Fishing, camping, and boating access for Morrow Point Reservoir. No boat launching facilities. Small hand-carried craft are permitted if carried down the steps (and back up).

* Length: 2 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: Moderately strenuous. 180 ft. decent into the canyon via maintained steps. Carry at least one quart of water per person.
* Directions: Off Highway 50, one mile west of its junction with Highway 92. A short steep road leads to the trail. Parking space is limited. Drop-off parking for trailers is available at the top of access road.


MESA CREEK
The sheer walls and extreme narrowness of the Black Canyon are appreciated along this trail as well as views from the base of the Morrow Point Dam. A footbridge over Crystal Reservoir provides access to the north shore of the reservoir, to which this trail follows.

Fishing and boating access to Crystal Reservoir. No boat launching facilities. Small craft must hand launched. Caution: Releases from Morrow Point Dam can cause strong currents and fluctuating water levels. Walk in picnic area is located on the north shore.

* Length: 1.5 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: Easy to moderately strenuous.
* Directions: Off Highway 50, at Cimarron. Drive one mile to Morrow Pont Dam parking area.


CURECANTI CREEK
After descending from the high rim of the Upper Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the trail follows Curecanti Creek as it falls toward Morrow Point Reservoir. The Curecanti Needle, a 700 ft. granite spire, towers above at the trail's end.

Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person. Two campsites with picnic tables, fire grates, and toilets are provided at the end of the trail.

* Length: 4 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: Strenuous. Elevation change 900 ft. Allow 2-3 hours for round trip.
* Directions: The trail head begins at the Pioneer Point overlook, off Highway 92, 5.7 miles from its junction with Highway 50.


HERMIT'S REST
Zigzagging through oak, pine, juniper, and fir, hikers descend to wooded camp and picnic sites on the shores of Morrow Point Reservoir. Campsites with picnic tables, fire grates, and toilets are provided at the end of the trail.

Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person. Check for ticks frequently during the hot summer months.

* Length: 6 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: Very strenuous and little shade. Elevation change is 1800 ft. Allow 3 hours for round trip.
* Directions: off Highway 92, 17 miles west from its junction with Highway 50


CRYSTAL CREEK
Winding through abundant wildflowers, Gambel oak, aspens, conifers and a recovering burn area, Crystal Creek Trail is ideal for spring or fall hiking. Sweeping views of Cimarron Valley, the West Elk and San Juan Mountains can be viewed along the way. The trail ends at an overlook, 1800 ft. above Crystal Reservoir.

Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person. Check for ticks frequently during the hot summer months.

* Length: 5 miles (round trip)
* Difficulty: Moderately strenuous. Trail begins at 8900 ft above sea level. Allow 2 hours for round trip.
* Directions: Off Highway 92, 24 miles from its junction with Highway 50.

Boating

Each of the three reservoirs within Curecanti National Recreation Area has a character all its own, and each provides a different type of boating experience.

Blue Mesa Reservoir

Twenty mile long Blue Mesa Reservoir, with its 96 miles of shoreline, affords many opportunities for boating. Windsurfing is popular at several areas such as the Bay of Chickens or in the Iola Basin near the Lake City Bridge. Boaters can explore several arms of the reservoir which reach into secluded canyons. Water skiers can practice their sport in the late months of summer, July and August, when waters warm slightly.

All boaters on Blue Mesa Reservoir should be aware that strong afternoon winds, sometimes accompanied by storms, can cause hazardous conditions. Be weather wise: watch for threatening cloud build ups. As soon as strong winds begin to blow, head for shore.

Water temperatures remain cold through much of the season. Windsurfers and water skiers are advised to wear wet suits.

Fees on Blue Mesa Reservoir

All motorized and/or state-registered vessels on Blue Mesa Reservoir will be required to have a boat permit: $30.00 for an annual permit (calendar year), $10.00 for a 14-day permit, $4.00 for a 2-day permit.

These user fees are half-price for those visitors who possess the Interagency Senior or Access Pass.

Morrow Point Reservoir

For the more adventurous and very hearty, Morrow Point Reservoir can provide a fabulous canoeing or sea kayaking trip. The adventure begins with hauling your boat and gear into the canyon. The easiest access to the reservoir is via the Pine Creek Trail. This trail consists of approximately 232 steps into the canyon. From the bottom of the stairs, the trail follows the reservoir for about a mile. You can put your boat in a short distance past the end of the stairs.

Morrow Point Reservoir is almost twelve miles long. The first half-mile of water is swift, but then becomes calm and still. The scenery of the canyon is spectacular. There are boat-in/backcountry campsites in the canyon, so you can make this an overnight outing.

At the end of your trip, head back to the Pine Creek Trail to exit the canyon. The current may make it difficult to paddle back to the base of the stairs, but you can easily make it to the bottom of the stairs via the foot trail. Now comes the hard part, hauling your boat and gear back up the stairs!

Some whitewater kayakers will haul their boats into Morrow Point Reservoir just to hit the "fluffy muffin". The whitewater is minimal, but at the right water flow in the first mile of the reservoir, a perfect wave known as a fluffy muffin forms, great for surfing, kart-wheeling, and having fun. The fluffy muffin forms about half a mile past the base of the steps. Be prepared for water around 45 degrees Fahrenheit and fluctuating water levels.

Crystal Reservoir

Like Morrow Point Reservoir, boating on Crystal Reservoir is limited to hand carried craft. The access trail for Crystal Reservoir is reached via the Mesa Creek Trail located near Cimarron.

Fluctuating water levels and releases from Morrow Point Dam can create navigational problems. Tricky currents, protruding rocks, and backwashes caused by water rushing over submerged rocks, can overturn the inattentive boater. In addition, conditions along the river section on Crystal can change drastically during the course of a day.

Heavy spring runoff from Cimarron and Mesa Creeks can further complicate matters. Before launching, be sure to assess the capabilities of your equipment and the condition of the water.

Warning: Reservoir levels change without warning! Be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions, and very cold water temperatures!

There are few, if any, passing boats on Morrow Point and Crystal Reservoirs to assist in an emergency, so wear your personal flotation device (PFD) at all times!

Safety Checklist
• Personal flotation devices (PFD's) of correct size and type for all passengers. PFD's are required for children under the age of 13 unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
• Paddle or oar ready for use
• Bail bucket
• Tools for minor repairs
• Warm clothing in case of weather changes
• Anchor and line
• Remember, rangers are glad to inspect your boat for necessary items.
• Operators of motorized vessels on Colorado waters must be at least 16 years of age. Persons 14-16 years of age may operate a motorized vessel if they have completed a boating safety course accepted by Colorado State Parks and have certification of course completion in their possession.
• All craft must travel wakeless in the designated no wake buoy areas.

Common Sense Rules
• Always wear your PFD.
• Don't overload, stay within capacity limits of your craft.
• Don't stand up in the boat.
• If you have trouble maneuvering in the current, lighten your load.
• Avoid getting sideways in the current.
• On river sections, don't hesitate to portage.
• Tie down loose items and secure your motor to your boat.

  Fishing

  Bag & Possession Limits: Blue Mesa, Morrow Point & Crystal Reservoirs and Gunnison River east of Lake City Bridge

  Species Daily Bag Possession
  • Trout - in aggregate (Rainbow, Brown, Brook, Cutthroat): 4 8
  • Brook Trout 8" or less - in addition to above: 10 10
  • Lake Trout - Blue Mesa Reservoir: 8 8
  • Lake Trout - Morrow Point & Crystal Reservoirs: 4 8
  • Kokanee Salmon - angling or snagging: 10 10
  • Yellow Perch: unlimited unlimited
  • White Suckers: unlimited unlimited
  • Crayfish: unlimited unlimited

  In aggregate means the limit may consist of one species or a mixed bag of more than one species.

  Additional Kokanee Information

  On the Gunnison River east of the Lake City Bridge, taking of Kokanee salmon is prohibited from August 1 to October 31.

  Kokanee Snagging Seasons

  • Blue Mesa Reservoir & Gunnison River east of Lake City Bridge: November 1 to December 31.
  • Lake Fork Arm at Gateview: September 1 to December 31.
  • Morrow Point & Crystal Reservoirs: September 1 to December 31.

  Gold Medal & Wild Trout Waters - East Portal

  The Gunnison River from 200 yards downstream of Crystal Dam all the way through Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to the North Fork is designated Gold Medal & Wild Trout Water. This designation is given to the lakes and streams of Colorado that offer the greatest potential for trophy trout fishing. Special regulations exist:

  • Artificial flies and lures only.
  • Brown trout 12-16" must be returned to the water immediately.
  • Bag and possession and size limit for brown trout is either:
    - 4, no greater than 12" long, or
    - 3, no greater than 12" and 1 at least 16" long
  • Rainbow trout must be returned to the water immediately

    Fishing Is Prohibited In These Areas:

    • From Blue Mesa Dam downstream 225 yards.
    • From Morrow Point Dam downstream 130 yards.
    • From Crystal Dam downstream 200 yards.

      Rules And Regulations

      • Colorado State fishing regulations apply within Curecanti National Recreation Area.
      • A valid Colorado fishing license is required for people 16 and older. Kids under 16 do not need a license and can take full bag and possession limits.
      • All fish that are not kept as part of your bag limit must be returned to the water immediately.
      • Check the Colorado State Fishing Regulations for any special restrictions or closures that may be in effect, especially during the rainbow trout spawn.

Curecanti National Recreation Area offers bird watchers a great variety of habitat in which to indulge their passion. From the wooded riverside of the Neversink Trail at the eastern end of the recreation area to the plummeting depth of the Black Canyon, a menagerie of bird life thrives.

At anytime of the year the visitors to the area can marvel at the natural wonders around them from fishing Bald Eagles in the winter, to displaying Gunnison Sage Grouse in May, to the death defying dive of the fastest creature on the planet, the hunting Peregrine Falcon throughout the summer months at Curecanti.

Within the area there are several vegetation types that provide ideal habitat for birds, which can be classified as woodlands, water (encompassing riparian and lake water), sagebrush scrub and canyon.

Woodlands

The Neversink Trail offers perfect opportunities to observe birds close up. Although only a mile in length, the trail takes you along side the Gunnison River under large cottonwood trees.

Look to the sky and listen to bird songs all around you. A myriad of color can be seen amongst the leaves, including the bright feathers of robins, Red-winged Black Birds and woodpeckers. Hummingbirds fill the air with their constant buzzing as they search for nectar. Stand still for a moment and inspect the trunks of the trees. There may be creepers and nuthatches ascending or descending the trunks looking for insects or seeds.

Water

Blue Mesa Reservoir is the largest body of water in Colorado and so offers a multitude of habitats for bird life. From the riparian habitat of Cooper’s Ranch to the mud flats of Iola to the steep sided arms West Elk and Lake Fork.

You may spot a graceful heron spear fishing along the shore or Western Grebes and Mergansers diving for food in the open waters of the three basins. The shoreline offers opportunities to see various species of wading birds such as sandpipers, phalaropes and gulls. In the spring and early winter, look for Sandhill Cranes migrating through.

Canyon

From the various lookout points along Highway 92 you can glimpse into the upper Black Canyon and see birds from a different viewpoint. From Pioneer Point you’ll find the rapid, erratic flight of swifts and swallows as they dive along the canyon wall. You'll also see Turkey Vultures that roost on the lower levels of the canyon who ride the thermals up to and above the canyon rim. Black-billed Magpies, Red-tailed Hawks, Western Bluebirds and the diving Peregrine Falcon can also be seen from this viewpoint.

Gunnison Sage Grouse

The Gunnison Sage Grouse, a newly named species native to the Gunnison Basin and surrounding areas, was recognized in 2000. Curecanti and the surrounding sagebrush communities are important habitat to the survival of this bird.

Trails

Dillon Pinnacles Trail

Horses may be ridden on the lower section of Dillon Pinnacles Trail. Pack animals are also allowed on this section of trail. This trail may be used to access the West Elk Wilderness north of Curecanti.

The trailhead is located next to Highway 50, just north of Middle Bridge. Horse trailers may be parked at the trailhead. Towing vehicles and trailers may be left in the parking lot overnight. Hitching posts are not available, either at the trailhead or along the trail.

This trail is moderately strenuous with a round trip distance of 4 miles, (6.4 km). It climbs 600' (185 m) in elevation. No water is available, and there is little shade. The trail proceeds in a westerly direction along the base of a hill above the shoreline of Blue Mesa Reservoir and turns northward and winds up though Dillon Gulch. Partway up the gulch, the trail swings westward at a junction with an un-maintained trail. At this point, an unimproved, unmarked trail continues northward which leads into the West Elk Wilderness.

Dry Gulch

An un-maintained trail extends northward from Dry Gulch Campground by campsite 10. This trail provides access to Bureau of Land Management land, the Sapinero State Wildlife Area, and the Gunnison National Forest. Check at local agency offices for rules pertaining to use of horses in these areas. Access to these areas is also available on a primitive road north of East Elk Creek Group Campground.

Camping with Horses

Dry Gulch Campground

There are two corrals available. They are located west of campsites #3 and #4, in a grove of cottonwood trees, which provides shade. Water is available seasonally. Horse trailers should be parked at individual campsites.

Ponderosa Campground

There is one large corral, in the middle of the upper campground loop, adjacent to campsites #1 through #7, with a minimal amount of shade. There are also hitching posts north of the corral and loading ramps. Water is available seasonally. Horse trailers should be parked at individual campsites. Bear-proof trash containers are provided.

If corrals are filled beyond capacity, prefabricated portable corrals may be erected on the outside perimeter of Dry Gulch campground, west of the creek, but not along the shores of Blue Mesa Reservoir. During times of overflow, portable corrals may also be set up at Red Creek Campground. They must also be outside the perimeter of the campground on the west side of the creek, but not along the shores of Blue Mesa reservoir.

Note: Corrals are also available at Soap Creek Campground, managed by the US Forest Service, Gunnison Ranger District.

General Rules for Horse Use

• Any other use of horses or pack animals is prohibited unless authorized by a grazing use permit approved by the superintendent.
• All hay used for livestock feed or bedding must be certified as weed free in compliance with Montrose or Gunnison County Standards.
• Grazing is prohibited.
• There are no hitching posts available along any trails or at trailheads.
• Picketing, hobbling or tying livestock to natural features, such as trees, bushes or rocks, is prohibited.

  Recommended Procedures

  To help insure a safe, pleasant visit for your horse, yourself and other visitors to this area, please observe the following suggested practices.

  • Stay on the approved, pre-existing trails at all times.
  • Always carry a first aid kit for you and your horse.
  • Carry adequate water for you and your horse. Water may not be available on the trail.
  • Walk your horse. Moving at faster gaits increases trail erosion and endangers hikers.
  • Always alert hikers when you approach them. Ask them to yield the trail. Be prepared to give them instructions on how to behave around your horse. Ask them not to pet or feed your animal. Warn them if your horse kicks or bites.
  • Pass other trail users only when and where it is safe to do so.
  • Do not tie horses to trees, bushes rocks, or other natural features.
  • Clean up after yourself. Pack out all litter. Remove horse manure from the trail and scatter it. Remove manure and excess hay from corrals and dispose of it properly.
  • Bears reside in this area. Store horse feed in proper containers, and secure it inside a vehicle.
  • If you discover serious trail damage or a fire, notify a park ranger immediately.
  • If your animal is injured or dies on a trail, notify a park ranger immediately.
  • If your horse gets loose, and you are unable to catch it, notify a park ranger as soon as possible.

Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing

There are no groomed trails, however, several areas offer good cross country skiing or snowshoeing to those who enjoy the challenge of breaking trail or following loosely established routes.

Winter brings elk and deer down from the mountains to feed at lower elevations around Curecanti. With temperatures often reaching -30 F, wildlife need to preserve all the energy they have for survival. Please be careful to not run wildlife.

Iola Basin

Ski the frozen, snowy surface of Blue Mesa Reservoir at Iola Basin located 10 miles west of Gunnison. Watch for wintering Bald Eagles flying overhead or perched in dead trees. Check ice conditions before skiing, and avoid fishing holes. This area is suitable for all skiing abilities, and is often even good for skate skiing.

East Elk Creek

Located one mile west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center on U.S. Highway 50. Ski or snowshoe the level road to the East Elk Creek Campground, or beyond to the Sapinero Wildlife Area, for a roundtrip distance of 4 miles. Suitable for all abilities.

Red Creek

Begins 4 miles west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center on U.S. Highway 50. Ski or snowshoe the road which leads to Red Creek Campground or continue beyond the campground toward the West Elk Wilderness Area of the Gunnison National Forest, for about 6 miles. Terrain is steep. Suitable for intermediate and advanced abilities.

Dillon Pinnacles

This trail begins in the parking area 5 miles west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center. The 4-mile roundtrip trail increases in elevation 600 feet in 2 miles. It offers views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the Dillon Pinnacles, and wildlife such as Bald Eagles and Bighorn Sheep. In low snow years, this south-facing trail may not have sufficient snow cover. Suitable for intermediate and advanced abilities.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobile travel is limited to the frozen surface of Blue Mesa Reservoir. Depending on ice conditions, the Iola and Cebolla Basins and the West Elk, Lake Fork and Cebolla Arms may be traveled.

• Maximum gross weight is 1200 pounds (machine and cargo).
• Speeds over 45 mph are prohibited.
• Avoid interference with other recreationists.
• Do not disturb wildlife. Snowmobile access may be limited to reduce stress to wildlife during harsh winters.

U.S. Highway 50

Traveling west from Gunnison, U.S. Highway 50 brings you into Curecanti. The highway follows the path of the Gunnison River. Stop and have a picnic, fish, or walk by the river at Neversink or Cooper Ranch. After passing through the Gunnison River Canyon, you come upon Lake City Bridge and the Iola Basin of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The landscape opens up into high altitude (7,500 feet) sagebrush steppe. Reminders of a volcanic past are evident in the mesas and breccia surrounding you.

Beyond Iola, stop at the Elk Creek Visitor Center (16 miles west of Gunnison). Stop at the old Highway 50 beach, .25 miles west of the Elk Creek entrance, and take a swim or enjoy the view. Continuing west, you will pass the Cebolla Basin; keep your eyes open for the Bighorn Sheep that frequent the area.

After crossing Middle Bridge, the Dillon Pinnacles are in full view. Cross the Lake Fork Bridge, over the longest arm of the reservoir, to arrive at the junction of Colorado Highway 92 and Highway 50. Twenty miles west, visit the historic town of Cimarron where the Denver Rio Grande Narrow Gauge railroad exited the canyon. Turn at the Cimarron Visitor Center to see the railroad exhibits and see the Morrow Point Dam.

Back on Highway 50, head west to Montrose but make sure to stop at the south rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, just a 5 mile drive north on Colorado Highway 347.

Colorado Highway 149

This highway winds along the south side of Iola Basin to a popular boat access at the Iola picnic area. Continue heading south, away from the reservoir to the Gateview Campground, about 20 miles from Highway 50. Then turn off for the campground is a narrow, dirt road that winds along the Lake Fork Arm of the Gunnison River. The scenery is beautiful and more isolated than other campgrounds around Blue Mesa Reservoir. Because of the unimproved road and narrow canyon, trailers or vehicles above 22 feet are not recommended.

CO Highway 149 can also be reached via the Blue Mesa Road or Lake City Cutoff Road. Both are dirt roads suitable for cars in good weather. From Highway 50, find the Lake City Cutoff Road shortly after Middle Bridge, or Blue Mesa Road further west after passing the junction of Highways 92 and 50.

Colorado Highway 92

One of the most breathtaking drives, Colorado Highway 92 crosses over Blue Mesa Dam and winds along the north rim of the Black Canyon, providing gorgeous views at every turn.

Pioneer Point offers great views of the Curecanti Needle and Curecanti Creek. Golden Eagles, Turkey Vultures, other birds and wildlife are common sights. Get a great view of the canyon at Hermit's Rest Overlook or take a hike to an overlook that begins on Highway 92 at Crystal Creek. Continue west to the north rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

National Forest Accesses

Curecanti includes Blue Mesa, Morrow Point and Crystal Reservoirs. The recreation area is surrounded by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land. Several roads, which begin in Curecanti, continue onto these public lands. These roads are suitable for cars in good weather.

Soap Creek Road

From Colorado Highway 92, turn onto Soap Creek Road and continue for seven miles up the Soap Creek Arm to Ponderosa campground. Continue for another 2 miles to the Soap Creek Campground and several trailheads.

Red Creek Road

East of middle bridge, Red Creek Road accesses a campground then follows Red Creek, with its many beaver dams and ponds, north into the Sapinero Wildlife Area and eventually the Gunnison National Forest.

Rainbow Lake Road

A little over a mile east of Elk Creek on Highway 50, Rainbow Lake Road takes you into BLM and USFS land; beyond is Rainbow Lake and the West Elk Wilderness area.

Hunting regulations at Curecanti National Recreation Area are in accordance with state regulations.

Regulations

• Hunters must have a valid Colorado State Hunting License in possession.
• Shooting from any vehicle is illegal!
• Hunters must wear at least 500 square inches of solid daylight fluorescent orange during muzzleloading and rifle seasons. Part of the fluorescent orange must be a hat or head covering visible from all directions.
• It is illegal to abandon wounded animals, or to remove only the trophy parts of a carcass.

  Special Regulations At Curecanti

  • Hunting is permitted in certain areas within Curecanti. Hunters are responsible for knowing all regulations before hunting.
  • It is against the law to possess a loaded weapon (including ammunition in the magazine) unless actively hunting.
  • Hunters must be a minimum of 100 yards away from any road, trail, campground, picnic area, facility, or other developed area to discharge a weapon. Do not shoot toward, across or from any visitor use area.

  • Bears may frequent campgrounds. Proper food/trash storage is required.

  Special Hunting Restriction Areas

  Elk Creek to Lake City Bridge (hwy149)

  May 1-Sept 30 - Only shotguns for bird/small game; bows for big game

  Oct 1-April 30 - All legal methods permitted for all species in accordance with state law

  Lake City Bridge (hwy149) to Neversink

  May 1-Sept 30 - Only shotguns for bird/small game; bows for big game

  Oct 1-April 30 - Only shotgun/rifle for bird/small game; bows for big game

  Camping

  Campgrounds with trash pickup, vault toilets, fire grates and picnic tables are available at Elk Creek, Dry Gulch, Red Creek, Cimarron and Ponderosa.

  Water is typically not available past mid-September. Drinking water is available at the Elk Creek Picnic Area all year. A dump station is located at the entrance to Elk Creek Campground.

  Safety Tips

  • Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
  • Have a map and compass and know how to use them.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and emergencies; carry a survival kit.
  • Beware of elevation changes and carry plenty of water.
  • Be extra cautious of other hunters, hikers and recreation area users.
  • Be careful with fires; extinguish campfires completely.
  • Report all accidents and illegal hunting activity to a park ranger.

ATV Use

Off-road vehicle travel is prohibited. All-terrain vehicles are permitted below high water line of Blue Mesa Reservoir where access is by road.

All-terrain vehicles are allowed at the following campgrounds only for the purpose of accessing Forest Service roads during big game hunting season: East Elk Creek Group Campground, Red Creek Campground, and Ponderosa Campground. Other use on park roads is prohibited.

National Park Service Areas

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (South Rim, 50 miles; North Rim, 60 miles)
• Colorado National Monument, 115 miles
• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, 165 miles
• Mesa Verde National Park, 150 miles

Other Attractions

• Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
• Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area