West Fork Road

There is no doubt that native Indians traveled across the Sapphire Divide for trade with neighboring tribes and were active all along the Sapphire Crest for summer hunting and spiritual activities. Being on a travel route with abundant game, it is highly likely the Sand Basin was utilized by the native populations. During the early mining days, miners explored Sand Basin for placer gold without much success. Loggers have long been active in the Basin, and it is a favored location for backcountry snowmobiling during the winter.