1955 Map of Grand Mesa

About this map

Grand Mesa National Forest dominates this mid-1950s survey, revealing a landscape defined by an intricate network of water management and alpine recreation. The high plateau is dotted with dozens of reservoirs and natural lakes, including Island Lake, Alexander Lake, and the Cottonwood Lake No 1 system. These water bodies reflect the era's focus on both irrigation storage and the burgeoning post-war outdoor culture, as evidenced by the numerous established campsites such as Skyway Campground and Ward Lake Campground.