1955 Map of Pitchpine Mountain

About this map

The high country of the Routt National Forest dominates this mid-century landscape, centered on the prominent peak of Pitchpine Mountain. This 1955 survey illustrates a watershed meticulously partitioned for livestock and agriculture, defined by an intricate network of irrigation channels like Erika Ditch, Wolfer Ditch, and Diamond Ditch. These human-made waterways diverge from natural drainages such as Lone Pine Creek and Beaver Creek to serve dispersed family holdings including Carlstrom Brothers Ranch and Irvine Ranch. The western portion of the map transitions into steep, alpine terrain marked by Roaring Fork Canyon and a chain of glacial waters, including Ceanothus Lake and Lower Rainbow Lake. Historic pack routes like the Lone Pine Trail and Helena Trail provide the primary access through these wooded slopes, connecting high-altitude basins like Livingston Park to the ranching operations in the valleys below.