1982 Map of Del Norte

About this map

The Rio Grande cuts a prominent path through the San Luis Valley and into the high country of the San Juan Mountains in this early 1980s landscape. This map captures the region's complex transition from the alpine wilderness of the Weminuche Wilderness and the La Garita Mountains to the engineered agricultural plains of the valley floor. The Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad tracks parallel the river, connecting mountain outposts like Creede and Wagon Wheel Gap to the established hubs of Del Norte and Monte Vista. The presence of extensive irrigation systems, such as the San Luis Valley Canal, Empire Canal, and Farmers Union Canal, illustrates the intensive water management required to support local farming near settlements like Center and Homelake. Higher elevations feature landmarks like Bristol Head and Wheeler Monument, marking the high-altitude terrain of the Rio Grande National Forest.