1959 Map of Bristol Head

About this map

Gunnison National Forest and Rio Grande National Forest meet at the Continental Divide in this mid-century survey of the high San Juan Mountains. The landscape is defined by the high-altitude Snow Mesa and Table Mountain, where a network of stock driveways and jeep trails connects remote water sources. Historic transportation routes are visible through Slumgullion Pass and Spring Creek Pass, following the same paths used by the Old Stage Sta (Ruins) and the San Juan Ranch. Local water management is evident in the Santa Maria Reservoir and Rito Hondo Reservoir, which capture snowmelt for the valleys below. From the sheer drop of North Clear Creek Falls to the fishing waters of the Hermit Lakes, this map documents a wilderness transitioning into a managed recreational and pastoral resource.