Boat on Morrow Point Reservoir

Visitors can boat on hand-carried craft, such as kayaks or standup paddleboards

NPS Photo

For the more adventurous, Morrow Point Reservoir is a great location for canoeing or kayaking. The adventure begins with hauling your boat and gear into the canyon. The easiest access to the reservoir is via the Pine Creek Trail. This trail consists of approximately 232 steps into the canyon. From the bottom of the stairs, the trail follows the reservoir for about a mile (1.6 km).

Morrow Point Reservoir is 12 miles (19.3 km) long. The first half-mile of water is swift, but then becomes calm and still. Be aware that fluctuating water levels and releases from Blue Mesa Dam can suddenly create very challenging boating conditions. There are boat-in/backcountry campsites for overnight trips. At the end of your trip, head back to the Pine Creek Trail to exit the canyon. The current may make it difficult to paddle back to the base of the stairs, so plan accordingly.

Backcountry Use Permits

Boaters on Morrow Point Reservoir are required to fill out a free backcountry use permit. Permits are available at the Pine Creek trailhead.

Details

Activity

Boating

Hand-carried craft only. Sudden releases from Blue Mesa Dam may create hazardous boating conditions in either of these reservoirs.

Age(s)

PFDs are required for children under the age of 13.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets on leash are permitted and should wear a life jacket on board. Pets are not allowed on marinas or docks, except for direct travel to and from a boat.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Pine Creek Trail

The easiest access to the reservoir is via the Pine Creek Trail. Hand-carried craft only. This trail consists of approximately 232 steps into the canyon. From the bottom of the stairs, the trail follows the reservoir for about a mile. You can put your boat in a short distance past the end of the stairs.

Reservations

No

Season

Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Any Time

Each reservoir has established boat-in campsites available. Morrow Point Reservoir has six campsites: two developed sites with amenities and three primitive sites. In addition, backcountry camping is permitted except within 1/2 mile of any developed area, bridge, maintained public road or boat-in campsite. Boat-in and backcountry camping is limited to a visit of 14 consecutive nights, and a total limit of 30 days during the calendar year. 

Boaters staying overnight are required to fill out a free backcountry use permit for Morrow Point Reservoir only. Permits are available at the Pine Creek trailhead.

Accessibility Information

Access to Morrow Point Reservoir requires descending 232 stairs down the Pine Creek Trail and walking further to access the put-in area. It is not wheelchair accessible.