Morrow Point Boat Tour Reservations For 2008

Date: April 22, 2008
Contact: Heather Boothe, [phone] ext. 206
Contact: For Reservations, [phone] ext. 205

Beginning Monday, May 1, 2008 visitors to the Gunnison Basin will once again be able to make reservations to journey into the Black Canyon on the Morrow Point Boat Tour in Curecanti National Recreation Area.

The Morrow Point Boat Tour transports passengers seven miles into the depths of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison along the Morrow Point Reservoir. Following the submerged railbed of the Denver and Rio Grand Scenic Railroad, participants experience the cool mists of Chipeta Falls and the towering monolith of the Curecanti Needle while listening to a ranger share stories of the geology, wildlife, and colorful historic characters that make this gorge unique.

Even the journey to the boat dock itself is an adventure. Passengers walk down 232 wooden and rock stairs before following the flat railbed for just over a half mile. Depending on the time of day, the water along side the trail may be a placid lake or white water being released from Blue Mesa Dam. Fishermen abound along the rocks, and several picnic shelters provide shade and a place to rest.

The hour and a half long Morrow Point Boat Tour will be offered from Saturday, May 24, 2008 through Monday, September 1, 2008 (Labor Day), every day except Tuesdays. Tours depart from the dock at 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Passengers should allow one hour to walk from the Pine Creek Trailhead to the dock.

Tickets for the boat tour are available by reservation only. Reservations are available as of May 1 at 970-641-2337 x205 or in person at the Elk Creek Visitor Center. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $7.50 for children under 13 or adults with Senior or Access discount cards. 

Please contact a ranger at [phone] extension 205 for more information or to make your reservation.