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1962 Map of Bluff

Name: 1962 Topographic Map of Bluff
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1984
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

The San Juan River defines the southern reach of this landscape, where the settlement of Bluff sits at the foot of towering sandstone formations. This 1962 survey records the town and its surroundings during a period of relative isolation, connected by the Mormon Road and the Bluff Road. Cultural landmarks such as the St Christophers Mission and ancient Cliff Dwellings underscore a long history of human habitation in the river valley.

To the west, the massive wall of Comb Ridge creates a natural barrier, flanked by Comb Wash and Butler Wash. The terrain is characterized by high plateaus like Tank Mesa and Bluff Bench, while the Navajo Indian Reservation occupies the lands south of the river. Evidence of local industry and infrastructure includes a Gaging Station, a Substation, and a Gravel Pit, alongside family-named sites like Decker Ranch and the distinctive Navajo Twins rock formations.