Curecanti Winter Adventures

Winter at Curecanti National Recreation Area provides exceptional opportunities for ice fishing, ice skating, snowmobiling and cross country skiing.

The Elk Creek Visitor Center at Curecanti National Recreation Area winter hours are Wed- Sunday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (starting Oct 1) 

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ICE FISHING

The Iola Basin of Blue Mesa Reservoir offers the best ice fishing conditions.

Anglers must have a valid Colorado State fishing license and obey bag and possession limits.

Ice fishing shelters must be removed each day.

Maximum hole size is 12" diameter or 12" on any side.

Check ice conditions before traveling on ice.

ICE SKATING

Winters of cold temperature and little snow make ideal conditions for ice skating at Curecanti. The Gunnison River Canyon, east of the Lake City Bridge, is a favorite spot for early season skating.

Never go skating alone and check ice conditions before traveling on ice.

SNOWMOBILING

Depending on ice conditions, the Iola and Cebolla Basins and the West Elk, Lake Fork and Cebolla Arms may be traveled.

Snowmobile travel is limited to the frozen surface of Blue Mesa Reservoir and on established access roads to the reservoir only.
Maximum gross weight is 1200 pounds (machine and cargo).
Avoid interference with other recreationists.
Do not disturb wildlife. Snowmobile access may be limited to reduce stress to wildlife during harsh winters.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

There are no groomed ski trails, however, several areas offer good skiing to those who enjoy the challenge of breaking trail or following loosely established routes.

Iola Basin
Ski the frozen, snowy surface of Blue Mesa Reservoir at Iola Basin located 10 miles west of Gunnison. Watch for wintering bald eagles flying overhead or perched in dead trees. Check ice conditions before skiing, and avoid fishing holes. This area is suitable for all skiing abilities.

East Elk Creek
Located one mile west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center on U.S. Highway 50. Ski the level road to the East Elk Creek Campground, or beyond to the Sapinero Wildlife Area, for a roundtrip distance of 4 miles. Suitable for all skiing abilities.

Red Creek
Begins 4 miles west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center on U.S. Highway 50. Ski the road which leads to Red Creek Campground or continue beyond the campground toward the West Elk Wilderness Area of the Gunnison National Forest, for about 6 miles. Terrain is steep. Suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers.

Dillon Pinnacles
This trail begins in the parking area 5 miles west of the Elk Creek Visitor Center. The 4-mile roundtrip trail increases in elevation 600 feet in 2 miles. It offers views of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the Dillon Pinnacles, and wildlife such as Bald Eagles and Bighorn Sheep. This south facing trail may not have sufficient snow cover. Suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers.