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1960 Map of Hermosa Peak

Name: 1960 Topographic Map of Hermosa Peak
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1979
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1979

About this map

San Juan National Forest defines this high-elevation landscape, where the headwaters of the Dolores River and Hermosa Creek converge near the Continental Divide. Surveyed in 1960, the map documents a transition from early extraction to federal recreation management. Evidence of the region’s mining heritage is visible at the Graysill Mine and Spanish King No 1 Mine, tucked away in the steep drainages below Graysill Mountain.

Logistics in this demanding terrain relied on established high-mountain corridors like Bolam Pass and the network of trails such as the Circle Trail and Highline Trail. The map also captures the intricate county boundaries where Dolores, San Juan, La Plata, and Montezuma counties meet. Named landmarks like Hotel Draw and Sig Creek Campground suggest the area’s importance for mid-century travelers and campers navigating the deep canyons of Black Canyon and Horse Canyon.