1982 Map of Harvard Lakes

About this map

The Arkansas River valley serves as a busy corridor for industry and transit in this high-altitude landscape, where the Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad tracks parallel the river's course. Small settlements like Riverside and Americus are positioned along this vital north-south artery, which also supports a network of water management features including the Riverside Ditch and an aqueduct. To the west, the terrain rises into the San Isabel National Forest, where the Harvard Lakes sit at the base of steep slopes. This area is crisscrossed by historic routes like the Wapaca Trail and numerous unnamed pack trails. Mining activity is evident on both sides of the river, with the Little Annie Mine and various unspecified mines dotting the hillsides, reflecting a long history of mineral extraction near landmarks like Elephant Rock.