1953 Map of Dolores Peak

About this map

Dunton (Rancho Dolores) serves as a primary point of interest in this high-altitude region of the San Miguel Mountains, where the West Dolores River flows through the southern reaches of the Uncompaghre National Forest. The landscape is defined by the heavy industry of the era, particularly mining and timber transport, evidenced by the Silver Pick Mill and numerous high-country extraction sites like the Emma Mine and Smuggler Mine. A significant transportation corridor is documented along the Dunton Road, while the Old Rio Grande Southern Railroad grade appears near the confluence of Truby Creek. This mid-century survey documents a transition in land use, from active mining operations in the Silver Pick Basin to the established recreation and geothermal draw of Dunton Hot Spring. Protective forest management is noted at the Dunton Guard Sta near the San Juan National Forest boundary.