New fees and permits are set to be implemented at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area in western Colorado. The new permits for wilderness access will require reservations in advance and will cost $6 plus $4 per person for South Rim wilderness routes. Reservations for trips between May and October will be available starting in April.
At Curecanti National Recreation Area, group camping fees will also be increased at East Elk Creek and Red Creek. Nightly charges at East Elk Creek, accommodating between nine and 50 people, will be $120, while Red Creek, which accommodates between nine and 20 people, will cost $60.
The changes are aimed at bringing the parks in line with comparable wilderness permits and group campgrounds. 80% of the collected fees will be used to fund projects such as trail rehabilitation, campground upgrades, and improvements to water, sewer, and waste systems at Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Curecanti. The remaining 20% of fees will be distributed across the National Park Service.
These new fees and permits will help maintain and improve the parks for visitors to enjoy. Reservations for South Rim wilderness routes and group camping fees at Curecanti will ensure a smoother experience for visitors planning to explore these beautiful outdoor destinations.
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