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1954 Map of Elk Ridge 3 SE

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Elk Ridge 3 SE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

Grand Gulch Plateau dominates this mid-century preliminary survey, characterized by the deep incisions of the Grand Gulch and its tributaries. Located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest in San Juan County, the landscape is defined by massive mesas and drainage systems like Mule Canyon and Owl Creek. The map records specific points of human habitation and historical interest, including a Cliff Dwelling and the settlement of Hogan in the southeastern quadrant.

Transportation routes are sparse, with unimproved roads crossing Texas Flat and following the contours of South Long Point. The detailed topography captured from early 1950s aerial photography highlights prominent landmarks such as Short Point, Baullie Mesa, and the evocative Hells Half Acre. This map serves as an essential record of the high desert terrain before the development of more modern road networks, preserving the location of early dwellings and naming the distinct washes and points of the region.