1953 Map of Dolores Peak

About this map

Dunton, also known as Rancho Dolores, sits deep in the high country where the West Dolores River meets Dunton Hot Spring. This early 1950s survey captures a landscape defined by the waning days of the region's mining and early alpine recreation. The map records several notable mining operations, including the Emma Mine and Smuggler Mine, while the Silver Pick Mill is already noted as abandoned. The high-altitude terrain of the San Miguel Mountains is traversed by historic routes like the Stock Driveway and the Highline Stock Driveway, reflecting the seasonal movement of livestock through the Uncompahgre and San Juan National Forests. In the southeastern corner, the path of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad follows the river, serving as a critical artery for the remote settlements and industrial outposts like Morgan Camp and the Dunton Guard Station.