Curecanti National Recreation Area

Things To Do Near Curecanti National Recreation Area

The three reservoirs are the central hub of activity in the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Blue Mesa Reservoir is popular for boating, water skiing, and windsurfing while Morrow Point Reservoir and Crystal Reservoir require you to carry your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to the water. Downstream of Crystal Dam, the Gunnison River is known for its world-class trout fishing; in fact, it has the Gold Medal & Wild Trout Water certification. In the fall, try fly-fishing for Kokanee salmon.

Hiking Trails

• Dillion Pinnacles Trail

  Hike along the shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir on the Dillion Pinnacles Trail. A favorite among landscape photographers and geology buffs, this trail takes you to the base of the pinnacles—from the end, you'll enjoy a spectacular view of rocks as they rise high overhead. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that discuss the unique geology of the site.

  Location

  19376 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230

  Length

  4 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Hermit's Rest Trail

  Enjoy a challenging day hike on the Hermit's Rest Trail, which is the most difficult route in the Curecanti National Recreation Area. It descends more than 1,800 feet, taking you down a series of switchbacks to reach Morrow Point Reservoir. Leave plenty of time for the return hike, which requires constant climbing. The views of the canyon from this trail are fantastic any time of year. Although the path passes through forested areas, shade is limited; bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.

  Location

  Hermits Rest picnic area, CO-92, Cimarron, CO 81220

  Length

  6 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Very Strenuous

• Neversink Trail

  If you're interested in bird-watching, load up your binoculars and head straight for the Neversink Trail. This is also a great option for kids—it's wide and mostly flat, so little ones can navigate on their own. A small stream runs nearby, creating a relaxing vibe as you hike through the cottonwood and willow trees. The Neversink Trail is accessible for both strollers and wheelchairs.

  Location

  Neversink Trail parking area, Highway 50

  Length

  1.5 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Morrow Point Reservoir

  One of the most beautiful and scenic spots in the Curecanti National Recreation Area, the Morrow Point Reservoir is a must-see destination. Here, the river flows through a rugged, rocky canyon, creating opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. The easiest way to get into the canyon is on the Pine Creek Trail—portage your boat down the stairs, or simply walk down and enjoy the views along the river. Alternatively, continue to explore the shoreline until the trail ends 1 mile down the river.

  Location

  Pine Creek Trail

• Dillon Pinnacles

  The Dillon Pinnacles are one of the most iconic sites at the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Here, rugged, bizarrely eroded rock towers line the cliff face overlooking the Blue Mesa Reservoir. If you don't want to hike, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the rocks from the beach north of Highway 50, about 2 miles west of Middle Bridge.

  Location

  17238-17946 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230

• Colorado Highway 149 to Gateview Campground Scenic Drive

  Enjoy the scenery along the Iola Basin on Colorado Highway 149 starting at the intersection with Highway 50 and heading south. When you reach the Lake Fork Arm of the Gunnison River, turn north onto the narrow dirt road. It travels through the canyon, offering wild, rugged scenery. The road can be challenging and rutted, so it's best visited with four-wheel drive vehicles.

  Location

  Iola picnic area

Museums

• Gunnison Pioneer Museum

  Experience life as a Colorado settler at the Gunnison Pioneer Museum. Here, you can explore a selection of historic buildings, including a log post office, a schoolhouse, and a dairy barn. If you're interested in the history of the railroad, check out the depot, the caboose, and the water tower.

  Location

  803 E Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Pappy's Restaurant & Pub

  Dine on a deck overlooking the reservoir at Pappy's Restaurant & Pub. Serving burgers, hot sandwiches, and pizzas, this is a favorite destination for campers and day-trippers.

  Location

  24830 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230

• The Gunnisack

  Snack on an appetizer of pretzels and cheese at The Gunnisack, a laid-back restaurant in Gunnison. With sandwiches, burgers, and Southwestern fare, there's something for everyone. If you have little ones, check out the Buckaroo kids' menu.

  Location

  142 N Main St, Gunnison, CO 81230

• Sherpa Cafe

  You'll feel transported to the Himalayas at the Sherpa Cafe, which serves traditional dishes from Nepal, India, and Tibet. Start with a plate of vegetable samosas before digging into a dish of Tibetan noodles or Thukpa Sherpa-style soup. The restaurant also offers beer on tap and a small wine list.

  Location

  323 E Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230

• Traders Rendezvous

  Traders Rendezvous is one of the most unique gift shops you'll ever visit—instead of typical coffee mugs and T-shirts, it carries a selection of mounted antlers. Choose a simple wall mount, or update your home with an antler chandelier.

  Location

  516 W Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230

• Treads 'N' Threads

  Pick up all of the outdoor gear you need for your adventure at Treads 'N' Threads. It specializes in clothing and shoes, but you'll also find a few souvenirs and camping accessories.

  Location

  113 N Main St, Gunnison, CO 81230

• Double Shot Cyclery

  Part bike shop, part coffee shop, Double Shot Cyclery is a hot spot for bikers. Pop in to pick up supplies for a biking trip, and make sure to sip a dark-roast coffee while you browse.

  Location

  222 N Main St, Gunnison, CO 81230

How To Get To Curecanti National Recreation Area

The Curecanti National Recreation Area sits just north of Highway 50 in Western Colorado. From I-25 near Pueblo, the park is about 180 miles west. If you're coming from Montrose, take Highway 50 east for 50 miles.

Address

102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO 81230

Fee: Entry fee $0

With its remarkable landscapes and fantastic fishing and boating opportunities, Curecanti National Recreation Area draws adventurers from around Colorado. Out of the water, you'll find hiking, horseback riding, photography, and camping; there's plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or a week. Stay comfortable in the remote Colorado wilderness with an RV; that way, you can visit in any season or weather.