Boat on Crystal Reservoir
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Crystal Reservoir provides backcountry flatwater boating opportunities. Hand-carried craft only. Access is from Mesa Creek Trail located at Cimarron.
Like Morrow Point Reservoir, boating on Crystal Reservoir is limited to hand-carried craft. The access trail for Crystal Reservoir is reached via the Mesa Creek Trail located at Cimarron. Fluctuating water levels and releases from Morrow Point Dam can create navigational problems. Tricky currents, protruding rocks, and backwashes caused by water rushing over submerged rocks, can overturn the inattentive boater. In addition, conditions along the river section on Crystal can change drastically during the course of a day. Heavy spring runoff from Cimarron River and Mesa Creek can further complicate matters. Before launching, be sure to assess the capabilities of your equipment and the condition of the water. Only out-and-back trips are possible. There is no downstream take-out.
Tags
BoatingCanyons and CanyonlandsDamsGeologyLakesRiver and RiparianRock Landscapes and FeaturesScenic ViewsTrailsTrains and RailroadscurecantiCurecanti National Recreation Areareservoircrystal reservoirboatinggunnisonColoradocimarron
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Details
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Night, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility
Launch access into Crystal Reservoir is not wheelchair accessible. The parking area for Mesa Creek Trailhead is paved with an overlook of Crystal Reservoir.
Pets
Yes — Pets on leash are permitted and should wear a life jacket on board.
Reservations
No
Age Info
PFDs are required for children under the age of 13.
Location
Mesa Creek Trail