News Release

Elk Creek Marina Ramp Improvements

News Release Date: November 8, 2023 GUNNISON, Colo. – The National Park Service has recently made improvements to the Elk Creek Marina boat ramp at Curecanti National Recreation Area (CURE) to enhance the visitor experience. The recreation area records approximately one million annual visitors, many of whom enjoy water recreation activities on the reservoirs.

The recent $126,000.00 project, funded by park recreation fee revenue coming from boating and camping fees, replaced about 7,000 square feet (760 sq meters) of concrete ramp that was originally constructed in the 1960’s. It was cracked, broken, and crumbling due to age and heavy use. Repairs can only be made when the ramp is exposed due to low water levels. The repairs now make much of the ramp smoother and more accessible for boaters.

Millions of dollars of maintenance work occur with the ramp and marina areas at CURE in support of water-based recreation. In summer of 2023, 30 comfort stations were rehabilitated and rodent proofed and 30 more are planned for 2024. Replacement of all fish cleaning stations at Elk Creek and Lake Fork marinas is scheduled for 2024. Also, in 2024 a multi-year 18-million-dollar project will begin to replace all underground water and wastewater infrastructure at Elk Creek and Lake Fork.

During the summer boating season, the Elk Creek boat ramp is the primary access to the Blue Mesa Reservoir, along with Lake Fork boat ramp. Motorboat access to the reservoirs requires boat inspection to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species. Inspection and mitigation services are offered seasonally at no charge. It requires presenting a required boat pass to the inspection station when in season. The National Park Service is committed to providing recreational opportunities at Curecanti and protecting water resources into the future.