Three lakes, named for corresponding dams on the Gunnison River, form the heart of Curecanti National Recreation Area. Panoramic mesas, fjord-like lakes and deep, steep and narrow canyons abound. Blue Mesa Lake is Colorado’s largest body of water and is the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Morrow Point Lake is the beginning of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and below, Crystal Lake is the site of the Gunnison Diversion Tunnel, a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Recently discovered dinosaur fossils, a 5,000 acre archeological district, a narrow gauge train and traces of 6000 year old dwellings further enhance the offerings of Curecanti.
Recreation
Popular activities at Curecanti National Recreation Area are hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, picnicking, photography, boating, salmon and trout fishing, hunting, windsurfing, sailing, waterskiing, cross country skiing and ice-fishing.
Getting There
By Plane
Commercial airlines to Denver, Gunnison, Montrose and Grand Junction airports.
By Car
Via Highway 50 which runs the length of the recreation area between Montrose and Gunnison, Colorado (approximately 200 miles SW of Denver) and is easily accessed from CO Highway 149 and CO Highway 92.
Getting Around
By boat, by car and on foot.
Traveler Facts
Contact Information
Curecanti National Recreation Area
102 Elk Creek
Gunnison, CO 81230
Phone: 970-641-2337 (Headquarters)
Phone: 970-641-2337×205 (Visitor Information)
Weather/Climate
Weather at the Curecanti National Recreation Area can vary greatly throughout the day. Summer daytime temperatures range between 50 to 90 degrees F, nights 40 to 60 degrees F. Winter daytime temperatures range between -20 to +40 degrees F, nights -30 to +20 degrees F. Precipitation is minimal, brief afternoon thunderstorms can occur during the summer, snow accumulation varies greatly year to year. Layered clothing appropriate for the season is recommended. Current weather information and a live webcam picture from Elk Creek Visitor Center is available.
