1960 Map of Gateway

About this map

The Dolores River cuts a deep path through this 1960 landscape, where the small settlement of Gateway serves as a lone hub at the junction of West Creek. This era of the Colorado plateau is defined by intense mineral exploration, evidenced by a concentration of uranium and vanadium operations such as the Vanaking No 1 Mine, Black Mama No 2 Mine, and the Protector Mine. The sheer verticality of the terrain is dominated by The Palisade, a massive formation overlooking the river valley. To the east, the Mesa rises toward the Uncompahgre National Forest, segmented by numerous drainages like North Larsen Canyon and South Larsen Canyon. Local life is anchored by the Wayside Chapel near the river, while industry reaches into the high country at the Mammoth Mine and Liberty Bell No 2 Mine.