2019 Map of Casto Reservoir

About this map

Uncompahgre National Forest encompasses the high-country terrain of the Uncompahgre Plateau, where a network of seasonal streams and historic cattle-rearing infrastructure defines the landscape. The northern portion of the map is marked by significant water sources including Little Bear Lake and the Casto Reservoir, which support the high-altitude Big Creek Ranch. This area reflects the grazing history of Mesa County, with named landmarks such as Dead Horse Pasture and Leonards Ridge indicating the long-standing use of these benchlands. Navigational routes are deeply tied to the geography, from the Gill Creek Trailhead in the north to the Ute Creek Cutoff and Smith Point trails that navigate the plateau's rugged breaks and drainages like Big Dominguez Cr and Cow Creek.