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1985 Map of Big Bend

Name: 1985 Topographic Map of Big Bend
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1986
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1986

About this map

Arches National Park dominates the northwest corner of this 1985 survey, capturing the iconic Delicate Arch overlooking the canyon system. The Colorado River carves a winding path through the center of the quadrangle, punctuated by several named whitewater features including Whites Rapids, Rocky Rapids, and New Rapids. The landscape is defined by its dramatic elevation changes, moving from the riverbed up to the sprawling Dome Plateau and the sheer walls of Parriott Mesa.

To the south, Castle Valley provides a distinct change in terrain where Castle Creek and Placer Creek drain toward the river. This mid-1980s map documents the intricate network of canyons and washes, such as Drinks Canyon and Ida Gulch, that feed into the river corridor. The presence of the Richardson Amphitheater and the sharp turn at Big Bend highlight the unique geological formations that have made this region of Grand County a focal point for explorers and naturalists.