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1969 Map of Fortification

Name: 1969 Topographic Map of Fortification
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

Fortification Rocks dominate the southern landscape of this 1969 Moffat County survey, a region defined by high-elevation ranching and remote infrastructure. The drainage system of Fortification Creek and its tributaries, including Fourmile Creek and Mud Draw, carves through the terrain, while early aviation and energy development are evidenced by a Landing Strip and a long-distance Pipeline cutting across the northwestern quadrants.

Remote outposts such as Pondella Ranch and Mesa View Ranch highlight the sparse settlement patterns of this era, connected by a network of Jeep Trails. The confluence of the North Fork and South Fork in the southeastern corner underscores the area's role as a vital watershed. This map provides a clear record of the high-country landscape just as the post-war energy boom and modern ranching practices were shaping the Colorado backcountry.