Once in the canyon, a trail led down to the Dolores River and a way out of the area in any direction I chose to go.

Somewhere ahead should be the Dolores River, and there was a well-traveled trail alongside the river.

Paradox's name stems from an unusual course of the Dolores River.

The expedition continued west and northwest, crossing the Dolores River.

Pa had wintered south of here on the Dolores River, one time, with a party of trappers.

But this month, as the first few drops of water from the dam on the Dolores River trickle onto farm fields, all that has changed.

After leaving the Dolores River, they ventured into unknown country.

This process took place over about 150 million years, a long enough time for the Dolores River to downcut into the land and maintain its ancient course.

The area includes the headwaters of the west fork of the Dolores River.

The discovery is significant because the site is on the north side of the Dolores River, which wraps around it on three sides.