Boat Tour Season Extended

Date: August 25, 2008
Contact: Heather Boothe, [phone] x206
Contact: Reservations, [phone] x205

Special Chance to See Fall Colors in the Black Canyon

Black bear sightings and brilliant fall colors are inspiring sights in the Black Canyon in early September, but usually they’re only accessible to some adventurous kayakers – except this year. In 2008 the Morrow Point Boat tour has extended its season through September 14, making the 1½ -hour tour a great way to see the fall sights.

“We had to cancel tours for the whole month of June due to high water,” said Heather Boothe, who manages the tours. “Luckily, the Western Area Power Association agreed to let us extend our season into September to make up for the lost tours.”

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 Grande Scenic Railroad, participants will experience the late season remnants 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. Fall colors of Gambel oak and aspen along with more frequent wildlife sightings are some of the special treats of fall tours.

The hour and a half long Morrow Point Boat Tour is offered through Sunday, September 14, every day except Tuesdays. Tours depart from the dock at 10:00a.m. and 12:30p.m. Passengers should allow one hour to walk the ¾ of a mile Pine Creek Trail and stairs to the dock. For these fall tours only, group discounts are available for groups over 37 passengers (the boat holds 42 passengers).

Tickets for the boat tour are available by reservation only. Reservations are available as of May 1 at [phone] 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] x205 for more information or to make your reservation.