2013 Map of Hesperus

About this map

Hesperus and the surrounding high country of the La Plata Mountains define this landscape, where the La Plata River carves through deep canyons and gulches. The terrain is a network of water management and alpine transit, featuring the Big Stick Ditch and the La Plata River and Cherry Cr Ditch, which reflect the region's reliance on irrigation and water rights. Settlement is concentrated along the river and transportation corridors like Us-160, with the small community of Mayday situated near Parrott Peak and Gold Bar located further south along the riverbanks. High-altitude trails such as the Starvation Creek Trail 167 and Old Gold Run Trail 168 suggest a history of prospecting and forest access within the San Juan National Forest. For those researching local families, the Hesperus Cem remains a primary landmark south of the town center, while the Cherry Creek Campground provides a modern point of reference for the recreational use of the forest lands.