1963 Map of Orphan Butte

About this map

Truelson Ranch and a lone School House occupy the northwestern corner of this high-altitude landscape, where the Dolores River cuts through the rugged terrain of the San Juan National Forest. The geography is defined by a dense network of watercourses and steep drainages, including Roaring Forks Creek and Wildcat Creek, which flow toward the river valley. Transportation in the mid-20th century relied heavily on pack routes and historic industrial paths, evidenced by the Old Railroad Grade winding through the valley and the Highline Trail traversing the eastern heights.