2016 Map of Dawson Draw

About this map

Disappointment Valley anchors this high-desert landscape in the southwest corner of Colorado, where the transition between the Uncompahgre National Forest and the San Juan National Forest creates a complex network of canyons and arroyos. The map reveals the intricate management of water in this arid environment through labeled features like Horseshoe Ditch and Custer Ditch, which redirect flow across the high basins. Notable landmarks such as Daddy Williams Bridge provide localized historical context for river crossings over Disappointment Creek. The terrain is deeply sculpted by erosion, resulting in named geologic features like Box Canyon, Wolf Den Canyon, and the broad expanse of the Spring Creek Basin. A sparse network of county roads like Co RD p20 and Lone Dome road connect these remote canyons, tracing the natural contours of the Dolores County backcountry.