Trails in Curecanti National Recreation Area

Winding through abundant wildflowers, Gambel oak, aspens, conifers and a recovering burn area, Crystal Creek Trail is ideal for spring or fall hiking. Sweeping views of Cimarron Valley, the West Elk and San Juan Mountains can be viewed along the way. The trail forks and leads to two overlooks, both over 1,000 ft (305 m) above Crystal Reservoir.

Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person. Check for ticks frequently during the hot summer months.

Distance (one-way): 1.5 mi (2.4 km)

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous. Trail begins at 8900 ft (2703 m) above sea level.

After descending from the high rim of the Upper Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the trail follows Curecanti Creek as it descends toward Morrow Point Reservoir. The Curecanti Needle, a 700 ft (213 m) granite spire, towers above at the trail's end.

The first half of the trail begins in the sun on a southwest facing slope and the second half is partially shaded by fir and spruce trees. Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person.

Distance (one-way): 2 mi (3.2 km)

Difficulty: Strenuous

Ascending through sagebrush, ponderosa pine and riparian habitats, this trail offers spectacular views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the distant San Juan Mountain peaks, and the eroded volcanic Dillon Pinnacles. Along the trail are a few shady places to rest and open sunny vistas with possible glimpses of bighorn sheep.

Horses are permitted. Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person.

Length: 1.9 miles (3.2 km) one way

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous

Zigzagging through oak, pine, juniper, and fir, hikers descend 1750 ft (531 m) to wooded camp and picnic sites on the shores of Morrow Point Reservoir. One backcountry campsite , as well as picnic tables, fire grate, and a toilet, are provided at the end of the trail.

Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person. Check for ticks frequently during the hot summer months.

Distance (one-way): 2.6 mi (4.2 km)

Difficulty: Very strenuous and little shade. Elevation change is 1750 ft (531 m).

This trail crosses Crystal Reservoir and meanders along the river's edge for less than a mile. The sheer walls of the Black Canyon and the base of the Morrow Point Dam can be seen along the way. A footbridge provides access to the north shore of the reservoir.

No boat launching facilities. Small craft must be hand launched into Crystal Reservoir. Releases from Morrow Point Dam can cause strong currents and fluctuating water levels.

Distance (one-way): .9 mi (1.4 km)

Difficulty: Easy to moderately strenuous

The Neversink Trail is located nearest to Gunnison on the north bank of the Gunnison River near a Great Blue Heron rookery. This streamside habitat with its heavy undergrowth of grasses, flowers, cottonwoods, and willows, is ideal for birdwatching or just a quiet stroll.

Trail can become muddy after heavy precipitation or flooding.

Distance (one-way): .5 mi (.9 km)

Difficulty: Easy

This trail follows Pine Creek as it cascades into the depths of the upper Black Canyon to Morrow Point Reservoir. It follows the old narrow gauge railroad bed along the reservoir.

Pine Creek Trail provides fishing, camping, and boating access for Morrow Point Reservoir. No boat launching facilities. Small hand-carried craft are permitted if carried down the steps (and back up).

Distance (one-way): 1.3 mi (2.1 km)

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous. 200+ ft (65 m) decent into the canyon via maintained steps. Carry at least 1 liter of water per person. Check for ticks during the summer months.

Ascending through sagebrush, ponderosa pine and riparian habitats, this trail offers spectacular views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the distant San Juan Mountain peaks, and the eroded volcanic Dillon Pinnacles. Along the trail are a few shady places to rest and open sunny vistas with possible glimpses of bighorn sheep.

Horses are permitted. Good shoes or boots are recommended. Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person.

Length: 1.9 miles (3.2 km) one way

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous