1963 Map of Durango West

About this map

Durango anchors the eastern edge of this landscape, where the residential grid of streets like Montview Pkwy and Crestview Dr meets the rugged slopes of Smelter Mountain and Green Mountain. The western half of the map is defined by the resource-heavy terrain of the San Juan National Forest, where numerous coal and mineral operations reflect the area’s industrial history. Traces of the Old Railroad Grade follow the contours of Wildcat Canyon, marking the historical transport routes through the canyons. Notable mining landmarks such as the Victory Mine, Sunshine Mine, and OK Mine are concentrated near the drainages of Coal Gulch and Lightner Creek. Along the Animas River valley, civic life is represented by the presence of Needham Sch and Miller Jr High Sch, providing a look at the mid-century development of this mountain hub.