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1956 Map of Cheesman Lake

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Cheesman Lake
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

Cheesman Lake serves as the central focal point of this mountainous region within the Pike National Forest, where the South Platte River is impounded by the Cheesman Dam. The landscape is a complex of high-elevation peaks and gulches, including Cheesman Mountain and the distinctive granite formation of Sheeprock. Settlement is sparse, characterized by recreational and organizational outposts rather than traditional towns. These include the Wigwam Club and the Flying G Ranch, which served as a Girl Scout camp during this era.

Water management and recreation are primary themes, evidenced by multiple gauging stations and established campsites like Wigwam Campground and Goose Creek Campground. Remote access to the backcountry is provided by a network of Jeep Trails winding through canyons such as Monument Gulch and Molly Gulch. This 1956 survey captures the rugged hydrology of the upper South Platte before modern expansion altered the surrounding wilderness character.