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1960 Map of Paradox

Name: 1960 Topographic Map of Paradox
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

The Paradox Valley floor and the surrounding high plateau of Nyswonger Mesa define this corner of western Colorado near the Utah State Line. The settlement of Paradox sits at the foot of the mesa, accompanied by the Paradox Cem and a nearby Airstrip. The landscape transitions from the broad agricultural potential of the valley to the industrial activity concentrated on the higher ground.

Mining operations like the Littleweiler Mine, Cosmo Mine, and Morning Glory Mine are scattered across the mesas, signaling the importance of mineral extraction in this era. To the east, the Dolores River cuts through the terrain near Bedrock, where the geological folding of the valley creates a unique drainage pattern. From Skein Mesa to the Wray Mesa, the map reveals a remote network of trails such as the Sharp Canyon Trail, used to navigate the breaks and canyons of the Colorado plateau.