1956 Map of Cheesman Lake

About this map

Cheesman Lake dominates this rugged central Colorado landscape, where the waters of the South Platte River are held by the Cheesman Dam. The map reveals a mountain terrain defined by deep gulches and significant elevation changes, from the heights of Sugarloaf Peak and Cheesman Mountain down to the riverbed. This mid-century survey captures the area within the Pike National Forest when it was primarily used for recreation and ranching, featuring the Flying G Ranch (Girl Scout Camp) and the Lost Valley Ranch. Numerous drainages such as Goose Creek, Turkey Creek, and Wigwam Creek feed into the reservoir, illustrating the complex hydrologic network of the South Platte basin. A network of primitive roads and a Jeep Trail provide the only access through this steep backcountry at the junction of Jefferson, Douglas, Park, and Teller counties.