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1985 Map of Chippean Rocks

Name: 1985 Topographic Map of Chippean Rocks
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1985
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1985

About this map

Manti-La Sal National Forest dominates this mid-1980s terrain, revealing a high-desert landscape defined by intricate canyon systems and high plateaus. The topography is marked by significant geological features such as the Seven Sisters Ruffles and the Reef of Rocks, illustrating the erosion patterns characteristic of San Juan County. Human activity is sparsely documented in this wilderness, though a single Mine Shaft in the northwest and various segments of a Pack Trail suggest historical mineral exploration and livestock movement.

Water sources are critical to the character of this map, with Sand Spring providing a rare permanent point of interest amidst the seasonal drainages of Chippean Canyon and Cottonwood Creek. To the east, The Causeway and Chippean Ridge serve as natural dividers between the canyon floors and the elevated reaches of Maverick Point. The map effectively captures a snapshot of a roadless interior before modern encroachment, preserving the named landmarks and backcountry routes used by ranchers and early surveyors.