2021 Map of Hellhole Bend

About this map

The Little Colorado River carves a deep, winding path through the high desert plateau, creating dramatic geological formations like Hellhole Bend and the Little Colorado River Gorge. This landscape is defined by its sheer verticality, where the Coconino Rim overlooks the Upper Basin and Lower Basin. Within the Kaibab National Forest, the map traces layers of transit history, from the modern Great Western Trl to remnants of earlier infrastructure like Old Hwy 64 and the Old 64 Rd (Tusayan). These routes follow the natural contours of the rim, avoiding the steep descents into Dead Indian Canyon and Lee Canyon. Remote water sources such as Smiley Tank and geological landmarks like Saddle Horn Rock and Mule Shoe Bend highlight the importance of specific points for navigation and survival in this arid environment.