Curecanti National Rec Area
Located an hour east of Montrose, the Curecanti National Recreation Area is home to Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal Reservoirs, named after the corresponding dams on the Gunnison River. Blue Mesa Reservoir is the largest body of water in Colorado, boasting 96 miles of shoreline. It is also the largest Kokanee salmon fishery in the U.S. and receives a copious stocking of brown, rainbow, and mackinaw trout.
Aside from being a great place to fish, it is celebrated as a favorite place for other water sports such as waterskiing and wakeboarding, swimming, and sailing.
Location & Contact Information
The Elk Creek Visitor Center is located 40 miles east of Montrose, just off Highway 50. For more information, call the Cimarron and Morrow Point Station at 970-249-4074 or the Curecanti National Recreation office at 970-641-2337.
Hikers can choose from seven established hiking trails in the recreation area. The Mesa Creek Trail is a great choice for an easy/moderate hike in the canyon areas below Morrow Point Dam. This trail is located on the western edge of the recreation area, just a short drive from Montrose. While there, enjoy the Cimarron Canyon Railroad Exhibit. The Dillon Pinnacles Trail gives hikers an up-close view of the unique beauty of the volcanic rock formations on the north side of Blue Mesa Reservoir.
Camping options abound with 10 campgrounds in the recreation area, each with its own distinct setting and amenities. RV camping with electrical service is available at the Elk Creek Campground. For a more remote camping experience, try the Ponderosa Campground on Soap Creek.
That’s just a small part of the adventure and beauty you’ll find here in this beautiful National Recreation Area.
Visit the National Park Service Curecanti National Recreation Area website for detailed information plan your visit.
Maps & Resources
Looking for a truly unique way to experience Colorado?
The Ouray Ice Festival is back January 22–25, 2026 at the Ouray Ice Park — featuring climbing clinics for all levels, vendor gear demos, mixed climbing competitions, and fun evening events downtown.
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Winter offers numerous opportunities for stunning photographs! We invite you to share your favorite winter photos of Montrose with us by tagging us.
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If you`re looking for a fun way to stay active this winter, consider cross-country skiing! It`s an excellent way to enjoy the snow, experience beautiful winter scenery, and get a full-body workout. For recommendations on where to cross-country ski in the area, stop by the Montrose Visitor Center for more information.
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Although it`s cold outside, don`t let that keep you indoors. Bundle up, head outside, and explore your favorite winter activity — the outdoors are calling!
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Here we are, welcoming another new year! As you embark on this journey, whether it’s traveling more, exploring new hobbies, or savoring the simple moments, we want to hear about your goals for the year ahead!
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Snow day joy at Cerro Summit. Generations of Montrose families have raced this hill—now it’s your turn. We’d love to hear your Cerro memories and Montrose sledding traditions. Drop them in the comments!
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Cozy café days are back. Sip something warm and explore the coffee spots around town. Whats your favorite cozy drink in Montrose?
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Quiet trails, crunching snow, and fresh mountain air.
Simms Mesa Loop off Dave Wood Road is your winter escape just outside of Montrose.
Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or trying it for the first time, this scenic loop offers peaceful forest views, crisp solitude, and plenty of space to roam.
Read the blog for directions, tips, and trail insights:
visitmontrose.com/snowshoeing-on-simms-mesa-loop-off-dave-wood-road/
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Winter Fun Fact:
Did you know, when it snows in town, you can go x-country skiing and snowshoeing around the Black Canyon Golf Course and at the Black Canyon National Park!
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Safe travels to everyone this holiday season. Tell us where you’re headed or where you’re visiting from in the comments.
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We love fresh powder and we love how much our pets love it too! Here are a list of dog-friendly places to check out in Montrose: https://visitmontrose.com/montrose-is-for-dogs/
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Do you LOVE Montrose?
Are you passionate about meeting new people?
The Montrose Visitor Center invites you to become a Volunteer Ambassador! Enjoy flexible hours, fun field trips, the opportunity to learn new things, and discounts at our gift shop!
Training is provided—just bring your enthusiasm and love for our community!
To apply, please visit the Visitor Center or apply online. It’s quick and easy!
https://www.cityofmontrose.org/346/Volunteering
For questions, call us at: 970-497-8558.
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