1960 Map of Elk Springs

About this map

Cross Mountain and the deep cut of Cross Mountain Canyon dominate this high-desert landscape in northwestern Colorado. The Yampa River winds through the northern portion of the map, joining with the Little Snake River near several established cattle operations, including the Rinker Ranch, Tuttle Ranch, and White Bear Ranch. These family-named landmarks, clustered near Lily Park, reflect the ranching history of the region where water access dictated the placement of permanent settlements. Further south, the map details the terrain of Twelvemile Mesa and the Pinyon Ridge, which are bisected by numerous drainage systems like Wolf Creek and Sagebrush Creek. The small community of Elk Springs sits along the Bear Valley Road, serving as a central point for the remote ranches and gas wells scattered across the sagebrush-covered draws and washes.