2011 Map of Blackhead Peak

About this map

Blackhead Peak and Squaretop Mountain dominate the skyline of this high-elevation landscape in southern Colorado, where the headwaters of the San Juan River system begin to take shape. This 2011 survey illustrates a terrain defined by dramatic alpine features such as The Needles and Nipple Mountain, while human impact is primarily limited to forest access via FR 24 and the management of water resources. The presence of Echo Ditch near the head of the Rito Blanco reveals the complex history of water diversion in the region, providing essential flow to lower elevations. In the southeastern corner, the settlement of Blanco Basin serves as the gateway to this wilderness, situated along the Rio Blanco near the convergence of numerous alpine drainages including Coal Creek and Mill Creek.