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1982 Map of Silverton

Name: 1982 Topographic Map of Silverton
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1992
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1992

About this map

Silverton and Telluride serve as the primary hubs in this high-altitude landscape dominated by the San Juan Mountains. The map illustrates a region defined by its industrial heritage and challenging geography, tracing the Denver and Rio Grande Western RR as it navigates narrow valleys. Mining operations such as the Sunnyside Mine, Camp Bird Mine, and Old Hundred Mine are situated near remote settlements like Animas Forks and Eureka, reflecting a century of hard-rock extraction.

Hydrological features are central to the terrain, with the Animas River, San Miguel River, and the headwaters of the Rio Grande flowing from the Continental Divide. The map also delineates vast protected areas, including the Weminuche Wilderness and Uncompahgre National Forest, showcasing the 1980s balance between resource extraction and wilderness preservation. Notable transportation engineering is evident at the Ophir Loop and along US Highway 550.