1960 Map of Davis Mesa

About this map

The Dolores River cuts through the northwest corner of this Montrose County landscape, where the dramatic elevation shifts of the Colorado Plateau are on full display. The area is defined by the broad Paradox Valley, flanked by the massive elevations of Davis Mesa and Martin Mesa. This 1960 revision reveals an intensive history of uranium and vanadium mining, with a dense concentration of claims such as the La Salle Mine, CF&I Mine, and Honeymoon Mine clustered along the canyon walls and mesa rims. Beyond the industry, the map documents the sparse but vital water sources in this arid environment, including Salt Water, a Salt Well, and a Salt Evaporator near Paradox Creek. A solitary Grave located south of Coral No 1 provides a poignant genealogical detail amidst the rugged canyons and industrial activity.