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2011 Map of Finger Mesa

Name: 2011 Topographic Map of Finger Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2011
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2011

About this map

Finger Mesa dominates the high-elevation landscape of Hinsdale County in this 2011 survey, marking a significant topographical divide where numerous drainages begin their descent. To the southwest, the headwaters of the Rio Grande flow near Ski Hi Ranch and Lost Trail Ranch, areas traditionally used for high-country livestock and recreation. The map documents an extensive network of water management features, including the Lost Lake Reservoir Number 1, Castle Number 4 Reservoir, and Hermit Reservoir 3, which utilize the natural basins of the San Juan Mountains.

Outdoor activity and backcountry access are anchored by the Ute Creek Trailhead and Lost Trail Campground. The terrain is characterized by steep glacial features like Crooked Canyon and a series of alpine water bodies including Heart Lake, Pearl Lakes, and Castle Rock Lake. The detailed drainage patterns of North Clear Creek, South Clear Creek, and Kitty Creek reveal the complex hydrology of this part of the Continental Divide region during the early 21st century.