1986 Map of Wagon Wheel Gap

About this map

Wagon Wheel Gap serves as the focal point for this mid-1980s survey, where the Rio Grande carves a deep path through the Rio Grande National Forest. The landscape is defined by the narrow corridor of the Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad, which follows the river's tight curves past landmarks like the Gaging Sta. This section of the Mineral and Colorado-Mineral county line area shows a complex network of high-altitude drainages, including Farmers Creek and West Bellows Creek, that feed into the main river channel. Notable for recreation and access, the map identifies the Palisade Campground near the confluence of Blue Creek, while higher elevations feature broad upland meadows such as Silver Park and Blue Park. The alignment of the historic narrow-gauge railroad route through the gap highlights the era's reliance on river-level mountain transit.