2019 Map of Gray Head

About this map

Uncompahgre National Forest encompasses much of this high-altitude landscape, where the San Miguel River and its South Fork carve deep through the mesas of San Miguel County. The map documents a fascinating spatial history of industry and tourism, from the former settlement at Vanadium and the rail-aligned history of Vance Junction to the modern development of Mountain Village. High-elevation landmarks like Gray Head and Whipple Mtn tower over the Deep Creek Mesa, while the Telluride Regional Airport occupies a prominent plateau above the river valley. Traces of historical movement are visible in the network of routes like the Galloping Goose trail and the Ilium Flume, which follow the rugged contours between Ilium and Sunshine. Notable water features including Cushman Lake and the Alta Lakes are tucked into the southeastern highlands, providing a detailed look at the hydrology of the Continental Divide region.