1968 Map of Canyon Diablo

About this map

Canyon Diablo snakes through this high desert landscape, defining a rugged geography that historically separated the Navajo Indian Reservation from the lands to the south. Along the canyon's edge, the map records evidence of early habitation and passage, including clusters of Ruins and a singular Ruin. The arrival of industrial transport is marked by the presence of the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad, which cuts across the southern portion of the quadrangle. Near the tracks and the canyon rim, a site labeled simply as Graves suggests the human toll and the isolated history of this arid crossing. The infrastructure of the steam era or ranching is further evidenced by a Water Tank, vital for sustaining life and locomotive travel in this water-scarce corner of Coconino County.