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1953 Map of Dolores Peak

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Dolores Peak
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

The high alpine landscape surrounding Dolores Peak and El Diente Peak was a hub of mining activity and livestock movement in the early 1950s. This survey, published in cooperation with the United States Atomic Energy Commission, highlights the complex network of resources tucked within the San Juan National Forest and Uncompahgre National Forest. Along the West Dolores River, the settlement of Dunton (Rancho Dolores) and the Dunton Hot Spring serve as central landmarks for the region's early development.

Mineral extraction is well-documented through named sites like the Silver Pick Mine, Emma Mine, and Smuggler Mine, while the Rio Grande Southern Railroad in the southeast corner reflects the critical transportation corridors of the era. The presence of the Highline Stock Driveway and Ground Hog Stock Driveway illustrates the area's dual reliance on both heavy industry and seasonal high-country ranching.