1957 Map of Bowen Mountain

About this map

The Never Summer Mountains define the northern reaches of this high-altitude landscape, where the Continental Divide zigzags across the terrain. This mid-century survey captures a network of pack trails that once supported early prospecting and mountain travel, most notably the Wolverine Trail and Parika Trail. High-elevation water bodies like Ruby Lake, Blue Lake, and Bowen Lake are scattered among the peaks, feeding various drainages including the Illinois River and Stillwater Creek. Evidence of early 20th-century industry remains at the Wolverine Mine, situated on the steep slopes of Bowen Mountain. This era of land management is reflected in the meeting of three major jurisdictions: Routt National Forest, Arapaho National Forest, and Rocky Mountain National Park. The map documents a transition in use from active resource extraction to modern forest and park administration.