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2011 Map of Curecanti Needle

Name: 2011 Topographic Map of Curecanti Needle
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2011
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2011

About this map

Morrow Point Reservoir and the Curecanti Natl Rec Area define this high-altitude landscape in Montrose County, where the Gunnison River's waters are held within steep-walled canyons. The dramatic spire of Curecanti Needle rises near the junction of Curecanti Creek and Blue Creek, serving as a primary landmark for the region. The map reveals a legacy of resource extraction and high-country ranching, featuring the Last Chance Mine and the Blue Creek District Mine perched on the steep slopes of Soap Mesa and Fitzpatrick Mesa.

Upland life is documented through established homesteads like McLeod Ranch and Knott Ranch on Black Mesa. Water management is evident in the engineered paths of the Big Blue Ditch and McKinley Ditch, which divert alpine flows from tributaries like Stumpy Creek and the Little Cimarron River. The inclusion of the Rimrock School near the southwestern corner provides a glimpse into the historic social infrastructure of this remote mountain community.