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1991 Map of Big Lake North

Name: 1991 Topographic Map of Big Lake North
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1991
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1991

About this map

Apache National Forest dominates this high-altitude landscape, where the headwaters of the Little Colorado River begin their descent. The map documents a transition between protected lands, bordering the Mount Baldy Wilderness to the west and the Fort Apache Indian Reservation to the south. Human presence is marked by seasonal cabins and utilitarian outposts, such as Phelps Cabin, Voigt Cabin, and the Thompson Ranch. These settlements are linked by a network of pack trails and old wagon ways, indicating a history of ranching and early forest management.

Water management is central to the area's character, evidenced by numerous reservoirs and named springs. Major bodies like Big Lake and Crescent Lake are complemented by smaller catchments like Dipping Vat Reservoir and Colter Reservoir. The terrain is punctuated by volcanic and erosional features such as Burro Mountain and Wahl Knoll, while a prominent Railroad Grade slicing through the timber underscores the region's industrial past.