1953 Map of Aspen Basin

About this map

High peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains dominate this survey, which captures the development of high-altitude recreation and land grants east of Santa Fe. The landscape is defined by its drainage systems, including the Rio Nambe and the headwaters of the Santa Fe River, which flow from alpine basins near Santa Fe Baldy. Cultural footprints are found at Rancho Viejo and Aspen Ranch, while the mid-century emergence of winter sports is marked by the Aspen Basin Ski Lift and Sierra Lodge within the Santa Fe Recreation Area. Large tracts of land remain tied to historical boundaries, such as the Juan de Gabaldon Grant and the Nambe Indian Reservation Forest Boundary. Numerous pack trails, including the Windsor Trail and Borrego Trail, crisscross the ridges, providing access to remote high-country points like Penitente Peak and Katherine Lake.