2017 Map of Difficulty

About this map

Difficulty and the surrounding high-altitude landscape of Carbon County are defined by the convergence of the Shirley Mountains and the Freezeout Mountains. This 2017 survey details a region where ranching life persists alongside the winding Medicine Bow River. The terrain is marked by dramatic elevation changes through Difficulty Canyon and toward the summit of Beer Mug Mtn. Transportation in this remote area is focused along two primary routes, Difficulty Rd and Medicine Bow Rd, which connect the isolated Ellis Ranch Airport to the broader county network. The map reveals an intricate drainage system including Difficulty Cr, Sledge Cr, and numerous seasonal draws like Red Draw and Walsh Draw, illustrating the complex hydrology necessary for life in the Wyoming basin and range country.