2001 Map of Spectacle Lake

About this map

The Conejos River carves a deep valley through the high alpine country of the Rio Grande National Forest, defining the landscape of this southern Colorado mountain region. Private landholdings and recreational outposts like Thomas Ranch and the Rocky Mountain Lodge are situated along the riverbanks, surrounded by the protected expanses of the Conejos Wilderness Boundary. The map illustrates a network of historic packing routes and high-altitude trails, including the Ruybalid Trail and the Victoria Trail, which lead to remote water bodies such as Ruybalid Lake and the eponymous Spectacle Lake. Evidence of the area's grazing and sporting history is found in labels for Bancos Cow Camp and the Rainbow Trout Lodge, while unique geological and marsh features like The Pinnacles and Chicago Bogs diversify the high-country terrain.