1948 Map of Paradox

About this map

Paradox Valley dominates this 1948 survey, a landscape where the Dolores River cuts a perpendicular path across the valley floor. This geologic anomaly defines the topography of western Montrose County, where the small settlement of Paradox sits near the head of West Paradox Creek. The map documents a period of renewed interest in the region's mineral wealth, evidenced by the inclusion of the Cashin Mine and Cliffdweller Mine tucked into the canyon walls. Further south, the tiny community of Bedrock marks a vital crossing point near the river's bend. The terrain is a complex network of high plateaus, including Nyswonger Mesa and Wray Mesa, separated by steep drainages like Wild Steer Canyon. These features illustrate the physical challenges faced by early ranchers and miners, with the Sharp Canyon Trail providing one of the few established routes through the broken country.