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
Fall is the perfect season for fly fishing in the Montrose area. Often regarded as one of the best times to fly fish in Colorado, fall brings cooler temperatures, pleasant days on the water, and more active fish.
With the stunning changing colors and beautiful scenery, it`s hard to beat a day spent on the rivers of Western Colorado.
Grab your fly rod and make the most of the season before winter arrives!
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After a warm summer, we’re looking forward to cooler days, crisp mornings, and all the seasonal beauty that Colorado has to offer.
With changing leaves, cozy evenings, fall festivals, local harvests, and time spent outdoors, there’s so much to anticipate during this time of year.
What are you most excited to experience this fall in Colorado? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
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Our amazing visitor center volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique blend of stories and experiences.
Whether they are welcoming guests, answering questions, or sharing insights, our volunteers greatly enhance each visit and make it more memorable.
A heartfelt thank you to all our wonderful volunteers! Your generosity, knowledge, and warm welcomes help our visitors feel at home. You truly make a difference!
Downtown Montrose is transforming into a vibrant canvas of creativity! As new murals continue to appear throughout the downtown area, there’s always something fresh to discover. Take a stroll, explore the side streets, and see how local art enhances the color and character of Montrose.
Check out the listing of public art here: cityofmontrose.org/Art
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The Old West isn’t just a part of history in Montrose; it’s woven into the very fabric of the landscape and culture.
Montrose was founded on horseback, and the ranching and agricultural practices helped shape the Uncompahgre Valley into the vibrant community it is today. You can still witness this heritage through the local horses, ranches, rodeos, and Western traditions.
This fall, immerse yourself in that legacy. Make sure to visit Montrose for the CPRA State Finals from September 25 to 27.
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As fall approaches, Montrose still offers an abundance of fresh, local produce to enjoy. Be sure to visit the local Farmers Market every Saturday, which is open year-round, and explore the farm stands throughout the town for late-summer harvests. You`ll discover fresh produce grown right here in the valley. Treat yourself to something delicious and savor the best of the season while it lasts.
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Shopping local keeps your dollars in the community and helps it thrive. Spend some time on Main Street in Montrose—browse unique local shops, discover new offerings, and support the small businesses that give our downtown its character.
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Tribute to Aviation Update
This year’s Tribute to Aviation at the Montrose Regional Airport has been canceled.
If you’re still looking to enjoy an airshow on the Western Slope, head to Grand Junction for the Grand Junction Airshow, October 3–4, featuring impressive aircraft, military jets, historic planes, and plenty of aviation excitement.
PC: @Gunnisonclamp
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This is your sign: make the most of the crisp autumn days by embarking on one last exhilarating high-country adventure before the chill of winter blankets the peaks. Explore breathtaking trails, soak in stunning vistas, and savor the beauty of the changing leaves while you still can!
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Montrose is a cyclist`s playground, offering a variety of terrains, including winding mountain singletrack, scenic gravel paths, and peaceful country roads. Regardless of your riding style, you`ll discover miles of stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures waiting to be explored.
Before you set out, be sure to stop by the Montrose Visitor Center. They provide trail maps, local recommendations, and insider tips to help you maximize your riding experience.
To ensure your adventures are safe, remember to ride in a single file when appropriate, use hand signals, wear a helmet, and stay alert. If you`re driving, please give cyclists plenty of room when passing.
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Experience Colorado’s incredible backcountry from a whole new perspective. With thousands of miles of unpaved roads and OHV trails, four-wheeling is one of the best ways to explore the rugged landscapes surrounding Montrose.
If you’d rather leave the driving to an expert, stop by the Montrose Visitor Center for recommendations on local 4-wheeling tour operators. It’s the perfect way to experience the adventure, take in the scenery, and enjoy the backcountry without the stress of navigating the trails yourself.
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Montrose is surrounded by amazing trails, stunning views, and mountain adventures just waiting to be discovered. Share a picture of your favorite view from your best adventure.
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