1980 Map of Coaldale

About this map

Coaldale sits at the northern edge of this high-elevation terrain, where the Arkansas River cuts through the canyon floor. The landscape is dominated by the intersecting boundaries of the San Isabel National Forest and the Rio Grande National Forest, marked by peaks such as Nipple Mountain and Hayden Baldy. Evidence of mid-century industrial activity and land use is visible in the Strip Mine near Fleming Mountain and various prospects scattered near the Bushnell Lakes. A network of backcountry routes, including the Rainbow Trail and Stout Creek Trail, provides a glimpse into how this wilderness was navigated for recreation and resource management. Settlement is concentrated along the river valley, while the higher elevations feature localized landmarks like the Radio Facility and numerous named gulches such as Trash Gulch and Rattlesnake Gulch.