1954 Map of Elk Ridge 1 NW

About this map

Manti-La Sal National Forest dominates this mid-century survey of the high plateau and canyon systems in San Juan County. The drainage patterns of Salt Creek and Stevens Canyon define a landscape marked by steep elevation changes, punctuated by landmarks such as Cathedral Butte and Bridger Mesa. Early resource exploration is evidenced by scattered Prospect markers and a Tunnel, while agricultural land use appears at Mormon Pasture and a localized Stock Pond. This 1954 preliminary edition, derived from 1952 aerial photography, provides a record of the region before modern recreation and road development fully altered the accessibility of the canyons. The presence of Natural Arch and named water sources like Angel Bright Creek and Lavender Creek suggests a terrain where geography and limited water were the primary drivers of human activity and naming conventions.