Curecanti National Recreation Area Overview

The old rock faces of the Black Canyon tell of changes that have occurred over a period of two billion years. The surrounding mesas are capped with cliffs and rocky spires, evidence of violent volcanic eruptions approximately 30 million years ago. These formed the West Elk Mountains to the north. Later volcanic episodes to the south formed Southwestern Colorado's scenic San Juan Mountains, and spewed vast quantities of ash over this area.

The Gunnison River readily cut down through this volcanic matter, but below laid the tough, ancient rock that has been exposed in Black Canyon. This canyon lends the fjord-like character to Morrow Point Lake's steep, rock walls. Crystal Lake is also steep-walled. Blue Mesa's lakebed formed in less-resistant volcanic mudflow materials. As these eroded beneath solidified volcanic layers, spires formed.