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1983 Map of Cactus Flat

Name: 1983 Topographic Map of Cactus Flat
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1983
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1983

About this map

Cactus Flat and the surrounding high desert terrain of the Big Bend region are defined by a complex network of plateaus and steep drainage features. The landscape is dominated by significant elevations such as Whirlwind Mesa and Mitchell Mesa, which are carved by seasonal watercourses like Walnut and the evocatively named Bootlegger Canyon. Human presence is sparse but concentrated at established cattle operations, specifically the Crosson Ranch and Escondido Ranch.

The presence of scattered Drill Holes and Gravel Pits suggests exploratory resource extraction or maintenance for the ranching roads. Traversing the border of Presidio and Brewster Counties, the map documents a system of jeep trails and unimproved roads that navigate the difficult passage through Rustlers Gap, illustrating the logistical challenges of high-altitude ranching in the late 20th century.