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Blue Mesa Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Blue Mesa Reservoir

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Blue Mesa Reservoir
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Why Rent On Blue Mesa Reservoir

As Colorado’s largest body of water, Blue Mesa Reservoir is a crown jewel in the Curecanti National Recreation Area, located just 23 miles from Gunnison. Stretching over 20 miles in length and covering 9,180 acres, the lake is ideal for boating, sailing, and trophy fishing—especially for kokanee salmon and lake trout. Several full-service marinas, including Elk Creek Marina, offer rentals, slips, and fishing gear. Set against the dramatic mesas of western Colorado, the lake features beaches, campgrounds, and hiking trails like the Dillon Pinnacles Trail, offering unforgettable views. With three interconnected dams in the Gunnison River system, Blue Mesa is also a vital part of the Colorado River Storage Project.

Best time to go
Visit Blue Mesa Reservoir from late June to mid-September, when sun-drenched days beckon for thrilling water sports and serene fishing. Experience the sparkling turquoise waters amidst a backdrop of golden aspens, all while savoring the tranquility with fewer tourists.
Water Quality
Blue Mesa Reservoir's waters are a deep blue, with areas of milky turquoise due to algal blooms, and the clarity ranges from crystal-clear to murky, depending on the location and time of year.
Surface area (mi)
23.12
Max depth (ft)
343.01
Elevation (ft)
7693.57
Shoreline length (mi)
95.69

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Jet Skiing
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Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Blue Mesa Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, there are no designated swimming areas in Blue Mesa Reservoir. However, areas with designated “no-wake” zones for motorized watercraft are generally better for swimming, and some spots like the Bay of Chickens, Dry Creek, and Old Highway 50 beach are considered good for swimming.

  • Blue Mesa Reservoir is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for lake trout and kokanee salmon. The reservoir also allows motorized craft and offers activities like boating, sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing along its 96 miles of shoreline.

  • There is no bag or possession limit for lake trout 32 inches or shorter in Blue Mesa Reservoir. However, only one lake trout longer than 32 inches may be taken per day. This regulation helps manage the lake trout population effectively.

  • The Old Highway 50 beach is best for families. It is located near the Elk Creek Campground and offers a convenient and accessible swimming area. This beach is also mentioned as a good spot for swimming in several guides.

  • The towns near Blue Mesa Reservoir are Gunnison, Almont, and Pitkin. Gunnison is the largest city in the area and serves as the county seat. Almont and Pitkin are smaller communities that offer access to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.