1960 Map of Paradox

About this map

Paradox Valley forms a striking geological corridor through the high plateaus of Montrose County, as documented in this 1960 revision. The small community of Paradox sits near the northern edge of the valley, supported by the Paradox Cem, while the settlement of Bedrock occupies the eastern floor where the Dolores River cuts across the landscape. The region’s mining heritage is evident in the scattered workings of the Cashin Mine, Cliffdweller Mine, and Morning Glory Mine, highlighting the mineral extraction that helped sustain these isolated outposts. Steep terrain defines the area, with Nyswonger Mesa and Wray Mesa rising sharply above the valley floor. Transportation at this time relied on a mix of unimproved dirt roads and pack routes like the Nyswonger Trail (Pack), illustrating the challenges of navigating the high mesas and deep drainages of Sharp Canyon and Wild Steer Canyon.