1960 Map of Maroon Bells

About this map

Elk Mountains peaks dominate this high-altitude landscape along the border of Pitkin and Gunnison counties. The 1960 survey documents a transition in land use, where former extraction efforts like the solitary Mine on the southern slopes are overshadowed by recreation and conservation within the White River and Gunnison National Forests. The drainage systems of West Maroon and East Maroon Creek create natural corridors through the steep terrain, punctuated by alpine landmarks such as Maroon Lake and Crater Lake. High-elevation passes including West Maroon Pass and East Maroon Pass provide historical transit points between basins, while the presence of the Conundrum Guard Station near Conundrum Hot Springs highlights early forest management infrastructure in this isolated mountain territory.