Curecanti

19.5 mi

Distance

1,543 ft

Gain

No verdict for this trail

We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.

What we do know

Inside Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data

What's missing

No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.

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Why you'll love it

Big climb

Out & back

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Curecanti

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Elevation & route

Distance: 19.5 mi
Elevation gain: 1,543 ft

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Directions & GPX

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Permits & access

Managing agency: Forest Service

About this trail

The Curecanti Trail is a 12.4-mile loop located in Colorado near the Curecanti area within Routt National Forest's Blanco Ranger District. This moderate to challenging loop offers a full-day hiking experience for those seeking a longer alpine adventure. The trail traverses terrain managed by the U.S. Forest Service, providing access to the diverse landscape characteristic of northwestern Colorado's high country. The loop format allows hikers to return to their starting point without retracing the same path, making it an efficient use of time for exploring the area. The trail is suitable for well-conditioned hikers looking for a substantial workout. Conditions and seasonal accessibility may vary, so checking current trail status with the Blanco Ranger District is recommended before planning your visit. The surrounding Routt National Forest offers additional recreational opportunities for those extending their outdoor experience in the region.

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Keep exploring — more trails worth the drive

Pioneer Point Overlook

~16 min drive

Pioneer Point offers stunning views of the upper Black Canyon and Morrow Point Reservoir. The overlooks are over 800 feet above the water level. The Curecanti Needle can be seen from here. This is also the trailhead for the Curecanti Creek Trail. Elevation: 8040 feet

East Portal

~27 min drive

<p>East Portal is within the boundary of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cure/index.htm">Curecanti National Recreation Area</a>, but only accessible from the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/blca/planyourvisit/southrim.htm">South Rim</a> of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.…

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Cow Creek

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East Curecanti

~9 min drive

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South Dyer

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