1956 Map of Curecanti Needle

About this map

Curecanti Needle rises as a prominent landmark above the Gunnison River, marking the dramatic transition where the water carves through the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. This mid-century survey captures the rugged landscape before the full impact of modern recreation infrastructure, showing the river winding toward the Morrow Point Reservoir. The terrain is defined by massive uplifted areas such as Fitzpatrick Mesa and Soap Mesa, intersected by deep drainages like Myers Gulch and Curecanti Creek.