1987 Map of Clay Hills

About this map

The Red House Cliffs dominate this 1980s landscape in San Juan County, where the high desert terrain transitions between the dramatic elevation of the Clay Hills and the deep incisions of Moqui Canyon. This provisional survey records a network of vital water sources in a characteristically arid environment, including Irish Green Spring and Green Water Spring, which likely supported the small-scale ranching operations evidenced by the Corral near the cliffs. The geography is further defined by the Clay Hills Divide, a prominent natural landmark that separates drainage basins such as Steer Creek and the southern reaches of Mikes Canyon. Evidence of mineral exploration appears in the form of scattered Prospects, while a series of 4wd tracks provides the primary means of traversing the steep slopes of Whirlwind Draw and the Steer Pasture.