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
Sunset on the rim. The end of Summer has arrived at Black Canyon. Can you find this famous Utah juniper tree located on the south rim near Dragon Point?
#BlackCanyon #ExploreMontrose
Fall is the best of both worlds in Montrose. You can have crisp and cool in the mountains, warm and sunny in the desert. Don`t choose. Have both.
#montroseco #ExploreMontrose
From Montrose, let your compass lead you north to the Grand Mesa - the world’s largest flat-top mountain.
#westslopebestslope #MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose
Thinking about bringing your dog along on your next getaway? Montrose is the place to do it!
Montrose, Colorado isn’t just people-friendly, it’s dog-friendly too. Whether your pup loves exploring new trails, running off leash, or just soaking up the mountain air by your side, Montrose has something for every four-legged adventurer.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park welcomes leashed dogs on roads, campgrounds, and overlooks, meaning your furry friend can take in the same jaw-dropping views you do.
Cerise Dog Park gives pups a chance to stretch their legs with 4+ acres of off-leash play, complete with separate areas for big dogs and small dogs.
Beyond the parks, Montrose is filled with dog-friendly patios, walking paths, and scenic spots where pets aren’t just allowed — they’re part of the adventure.
Ready to plan the paw-fect vacation? 🐶 Read our full guide here: visitmontrose.com/plan/dog-friendly-vacation/
Share a pic of your Montrose pup in the comments!
@Visitmontrose @Montroselifestyle
#visitmontrose #montroseco
A bucket-list item awaits just down the road. Step up, clip in, and take the scenic route - straight up the rock face. Face your fears at the Ouray Via Ferrata.
#MontroseCO #SupportLocal #ExploreMontrose #ViaFerrata
The last few weeks of summer before fall arrives make for some of the best days in the high country. Soak it up.
#MontroseCO #GetOutside #ExploreMontrose
Discover Why Montrose Is a Global Destination for Hunting!
Archery season kicks off today, September 2nd—and there’s no better place to start than Montrose, Colorado. From elk and deer to small game and waterfowl, our rugged landscapes and endless public land make Montrose a world-class hunting destination.
Whether you’re chasing your first bull with a bow, planning a guided experience, or dreaming of a classic wall-tent pack-in adventure, Montrose has everything you need. With outfitters, gear shops, meat processors, lodging, and even a wildlife office in town—it’s all here to make your hunt seamless and unforgettable.
Ready to plan your next hunt? Montrose is calling.
Read the full blog: visitmontrose.com/montrose-a-world-destination-for-hunting/
@Visitmontrose @Montroselifestyle PC: @nativebycarlton
#visitmontrose #montroseco
Fall Sale at the Montrose Visitor Center!
Sept. 22–27 | 107 S Cascade Ave
Get ready for cooler days and crisp adventures with savings all week long! Enjoy up to 25% off apparel and 15% off all other merchandise (stickers and artwork excluded).
Whether you’re layering up for fall hikes, looking for the perfect gift to take home, or just want to show your Montrose pride, now’s the time to stock up.
#MontroseCO #SupportLocal #visitmontrose
@montroselifestyle
A big thank you to everyone who made FUNC Fest a success.
We’re still celebrating all the incredible athletes and community spirit that came together on the river. Congratulations to the winners of the water sports competitions!
To everyone who participated, volunteered, or came out to cheer — thank you! Your energy and support make FUNC Fest possible year after year.
#montroseco #FUNC2025
@city_of_montrose @montroselifestyle
Aim high, throw far. Give the Riverbottom disc golf course a try.
#GetOutside #MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose
Love the land? Protect its beauty. Stay on trail, pick up trash, and tread lightly.
#LeaveNoTrace #ProtectOurTrails #MontroseCO #ExploreMontrose
From farm to table, straight to your weekend plans. Don`t forget to check out the local farmer`s market.
Credit: Amy Blomquist
#EatLocal #MontroseFarmersMarket #ExploreMontrose #MontroseCO
