2022 Map of Finger Mesa

About this map

The Continental Divide bisects the high country of Hinsdale County in this 2022 survey, marking the primary hydrological boundary of the American West. To the north lies the Gunnison National Forest, while the southern slopes descend into the Rio Grande National Forest. This high-altitude landscape is defined by its drainage systems, where the headwaters of the Rio Grande and Ute Creek emerge. Recreationists and surveyors alike can trace the path of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trl as it winds along the ridge line, connecting with historic paths like the Lost Trl and Heart Lake Trl. Significant water features such as Heart Lake, the Pearl Lakes, and the Hermit Number 4 Reservoir highlight the region's importance for water management and high-alpine ecosystems. The namesake Finger Mesa stands as a prominent topographical landmark near Crooked Canyon.