Curecanti National Recreation Area

Located in west-central Colorado, Curecanti National Recreation Area was established on February 11, 1965. The area protects a variety of natural, historic, and archeological features, including the remains of ancient structures called wickiups that date back 4,500 years. After the land was surveyed in 1853, a narrow-gauge railroad was constructed to transport ore, coal, cattle, and other goods through the Curecanti area. The park contains three high-altitude reservoirs tied together by the Gunnison River—two of which are located within the easternmost portion of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Visitors enjoy recreational opportunities like salmon and trout fishing, boating, camping, and birding. Set in the Rocky Mountains, the area encompasses canyons, pinnacles, cliffs, reservoirs, and rivers, offering visitors a stunning backdrop for recreation in every season of the year.