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A single boat floating out in a reservoir. Mesas surrounding the area are reflected on the water.
Destinations › … › United States › Colorado

Curecanti National Recreation Area

warningDanger1 warning calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
Curecanti National Recreation AreaYour own route Plan a trip here →
Danger Toxic Algae Found – Blue Mesa Water Quality Advisory

Cyanotoxins are currently present in the Iola Basin. Until further notice, the park recommends that no person or pet swims in, or drinks from, reservoir waters in the Iola Basin. Cyanotoxins may be present in the Cebolla and Sapinero Basins. Use caution when fishing, boating, or Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Curecanti National Recreation Area is located in Colorado and offers a mix of outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors often come to enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking along the Gunnison River and its reservoirs.

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The area is also home to Morrow Point Boat Tours, which provide a unique perspective of the landscape. The tours start taking reservations on May 1, so planning ahead is advisable for those interested in this experience.

In pictures

Underexposed shot of waves coming off a reservoir. Mesas in the background.
Underexposed shot of waves coming off a reservoir. Mesas in the background.

Things to do

Hike Curecanti Creek Trail
2-3 Hours · Spring/Summer

After descending from the high rim of the Upper Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the trail follows Curecanti Cree...
Hike Pine Creek Trail
1-2 Hours · Spring/Summer

This trail follows Pine Creek as it cascades into the depths of the upper Black Canyon to Morrow Point Reservo...
Boat on Morrow Point Reservoir
Summer/Fall

For the more adventurous, Morrow Point Reservoir is a great location for canoeing or kayaking. The easiest acc...
Boat on Crystal Reservoir
Summer/Fall

Crystal Reservoir provides backcountry flatwater boating opportunities. Hand-carried craft only. Access is fro...
Hike Mesa Creek Trail
1-2 Hours · Spring/Summer

This trail crosses Crystal Reservoir via footbridge and meanders along the river's edge for views of the sheer...
Hike Neversink Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This short trail is located nearest to Gunnison along the Gunnison River and provides good birdwatching opport...
Boat on Blue Mesa Reservoir
Spring/Summer

Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado, has 96 miles of shoreline and provides opportuniti...
Hike Dillon Pinnacles
2-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

Ascending through sagebrush, ponderosa pine and riparian habitats, this 1.9-mile (3.2 km) trail offers spectac...
Fishing at Curecanti
Spring/Summer

Fishing is allowed along the Gunnison River and all three reservoirs of Curecanti National Recreation Area. Al...
Drive East Portal Road
1-2 Hours · Spring/Summer

East Portal Road is a windy, steep scenic road down to the Gunnison River. East Portal is within Curecanti Nat...
Hike Hermits Rest Trail
2-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

Zigzagging through oak, pine, juniper, and fir, hikers descend more than 1750 ft (531 m) to a wooded camp and...
Drive U.S. Highway 50
2-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

U.S. Highway 50 travels west from Gunnison and brings you into Curecanti National Recreation Area. The highway...

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1965
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
wheelchair accessible
Address
102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO 81230
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
9706412337
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Reservations for boat tours are recommended, especially in peak season.
The Elk Creek Visitor Center is 15 miles west of Gunnison off Highway 50.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Check for any seasonal closures or specific park regulations before your visit.

Photo: NPS/Kat Connelly