2016 Map of Lake Mountain

About this map

The high-altitude terrain of the La Garita Mountains dominates this portion of the Rio Grande National Forest in Saguache County. The landscape is defined by a series of alpine "parks"—natural clearings or basins—including South Park, Lower South Park, Mexican Park, and Sunnyside Park. These features were historically significant for grazing and orientation in the high country. Drainage networks such as Hat Springs Cr and Squaw Cr carve through the peaks, while the southern end of the map reaches Carnero Pass. Notable landmarks like Mt Lion and Lake Mountain provide vertical relief above the gulches. The limited road infrastructure, primarily Co RD 30cc and BLM RD 0732, highlights the secluded nature of this wilderness area prior to more modern encroachments, preserving a clear view of the complex hydrography and summit geography.