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1973 Map of Big Bucktail Creek

Name: 1973 Topographic Map of Big Bucktail Creek
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1975
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1975

About this map

The San Miguel River carves through the southern reaches of this landscape, its waters diverted by a complex network of irrigation infrastructure including the C. C. Ditch, Parkway Ditch, and Doing Ditch. This 1973 field-checked survey reveals the high-plateau geography of the Uncompahgre National Forest, where steep drainages like Coal Canyon and Robbers Roost Canyon descend toward the river valley.

Settlement is sparse, concentrated near the river at Pinon or the small gathering at Mountain View. Local history is anchored by the small Cem near the riverbanks and the namesake Big Bucktail Creek that feeds from the north. The presence of a Gravel Pit and several Drill Hole labels indicates the region's mid-century industrial interests, while a primitive network of Pack Trails and Jeep Trails provides the primary access across Pinto Mesa and into the Tabeguache Basin.