2016 Map of Pine Cone Knob

About this map

Rio Grande National Forest dominates this section of the San Juan Mountains, where high-altitude geography is defined by a network of drainage creeks and prominent volcanic or glacial landmarks. The area is anchored by Pine Cone Knob and the nearby Pine Cone Spring, illustrating a landscape shaped by seasonal water sources. The map reveals an extensive historic trail network, including the Embargo Trail and the La Garita Creek Cutoff Trail, which likely follow traditional routes through the high country. These paths connect isolated points like Milk Cow Pass and open basins such as Groundhog Park, indicating the long-standing use of these corridors for livestock grazing or travel between the Saguache and Rio Grande county lines. Further north, the towering Cathedral Rock and Cyclone Mtn stand as navigational waypoints for those traversing the headwaters of Embargo Cr and Dyers Cr.