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The West Elk LoopLength: 205 miles - Driving Time: 6 to 8 hoursSpecial Considerations: 31 mile gravel section over Kebler Pass is closed in winter Special Features: Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Blue Mesa Reservoir |
 One of the campgrounds at Blue Mesa Reservoir |
 This route gives access to the White River and Gunnison National Forests, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Curecanti National Recreation Area, Blue Mesa Reservoir, and Crawford and Paonia State Parks. Europeans first came here in search of minerals, then stayed to farm and ranch. Carbondale, Hotchkiss, Crawford, Gunnison, and Crested Butte offer a rich slice of Colorado's history. Marble is where the stone for the Tomb of the Unknowns came from. The "Loop" part of this scenic byway encircles West Elk Mountain, a very large ancient volcano.  |
 Curecanti Creek area  Black Canyon of the Gunnison at Morrow Point Lake  Coming up on Crested Butte  February, looking west across Blue Mesa Reservoir |
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| West Elk Loop Scenic Byway Pages: Blue Mesa Reservoir - Morrow Point Lake Curecanti NRA: Uphill Views - From Curecanti to Hotchkiss Related Links: Gunnison - Crawford - Hotchkiss - Crested Butte Colorado Links: Towns & Places - Scenic Byways - State Parks - Mountains - History & Heritage Unique Natural Features - Photo Galleries - Outdoor Sports & Recreation Colorado's National Forests - BLM Sites - Colorado's National Parks |
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The fall photo and the map are from the "Discover Colorado" brochure printed by the Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways Commission. |
