1963 Map of La Plata

About this map

The San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado are documented here during a period of 1960s field checking. This terrain within the San Juan National Forest is defined by a dense concentration of high-altitude summits, including the prominent Hesperus Mountain, Centennial Peak, and Sharkstooth Peak. The map provides specific locations for historic resource extraction, featuring the Cumberland Mine near Kennebec Pass and the Gold King Mill along the La Plata River. These industrial landmarks are connected by a network of high-elevation routes such as the High Line Trail and Columbus Pack Trail. Significant drainage patterns are visible through the North Fork West Mancos River and Lewis Creek, illustrating the complex water systems that supported early mining and milling operations across the La Plata Mountains.