1960 Map of Red Canyon

About this map

The confluence of the Dolores River and the San Miguel River anchors this 1960 survey of a mining-heavy landscape in western Colorado. The map reveals an intensive era of mineral extraction along the canyon walls and high mesas, particularly evident near Club Ranch and throughout Martin Mesa. Notable operations like the Shamrock Mine, Bluebird Mine, and the Dakota Mine are situated among the intricate drainage networks of Red Canyon and Roc Creek. The presence of several Placer Mine sites along the riverbanks and a remote Airstrip (Abandoned) on Atkinson Mesa indicates the logistical challenges of this industrial frontier. Between the high plateaus of Blue Mesa and Carpenter Flats, the terrain is marked by dozens of small claims, including the Little Dick Mine and Club Sandwich Mine, showing the density of mid-century exploration.