2013 Map of Arco North

About this map

The Big Lost River Valley forms a wide, agricultural corridor between the high peaks of the Challis National Forest and the desert plains of Butte County. This 2013 survey documents the intensive water management system essential to the region, featuring an intricate network of irrigation works such as the Arco Canal, Lower Blaine Canal, and Munsey Ditch. The settlement of Arco sits at the southern base of Arco Peak, serving as a hub for the surrounding ranching and farming lands. To the north, the small communities of Moore and Lost River align with the Big Lost River, showing the long-established pattern of high-desert settlement where access to water dictates the geography. Significant landmarks like Hillcrest Cem and the route through Beaverland Pass provide points of interest for those tracing the history of movement through this mountain-shadowed valley.