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1955 Map of Ouray

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Ouray
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1970
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1970

About this map

Ouray is the focal point of this mid-century survey, revealing a landscape shaped by intensive mountain mining and early tourism. The town sits at the northern end of the Uncompahgre Gorge, surrounded by dramatic features like The Amphitheater and The Blowout. Industrial activity is evident in the numerous operations dotting the slopes, including the American Lead and Zinc Mill, Syracuse Mine, and Wanakah Mine.

Logistics of the era are visible through the Old Railroad Grade following the Uncompahgre River and several remote ranching sites such as Erickson Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch. Recreational development is marked by the Radium Springs Swimming Pool and Rotary Park, while a network of pack trails suggests a reliance on traditional mountain transport even as roads like the state route through Portland expanded. The proximity of the Forest Boundary underscores the town's position within the Uncompahgre National Forest.