2016 Map of Pole Creek Mountain

About this map

The high alpine crest of the San Juan Mountains defines this portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, where the boundary between the Gunnison National Forest and Rio Grande National Forest follows the ridgeline. This landscape is characterized by prominent summits and steep drainages, including Half Peak and Carson Peak in the north, and the central mass of Pole Creek Mountain. The hydrography reflects the divergent paths of the Continental Divide, with waters flowing toward the Rio Grande in the south and via Pole Cr and Lost Trail Cr in the east. Numerous hiking routes, such as the Cataract Creek Trail leading to Cataract Lake, underscore the area's importance as a remote wilderness corridor. The intersection of Hinsdale and San Juan counties cuts through the western portion of the map, following the high peaks near Cuba Gulch.