1965 Map of Eldorado Springs

About this map

Eldorado Springs and the southern edge of Boulder define this landscape during a period of transition between wilderness and scientific expansion in the mid-1960s. The presence of the National Center for Atmospheric Research on the mesa contrasts with the rural character of mountain settlements like Magnolia and Crescent Village. The terrain is dominated by the dramatic uplift of The Flatirons, Green Mountain, and South Boulder Peak, which separate the urbanizing plains from the high-country resources of Walker Ranch Park and the Roosevelt National Forest. Historic industry and community life are grounded in numerous small schools such as Mesa Sch and Coal Creek Sch, alongside several Claypits and the Gross Reservoir dam system. This survey documents the complex topography and early conservation efforts that eventually became Eldorado Canyon State Park.