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1963 Map of Hexie Mountains

Name: 1963 Topographic Map of Hexie Mountains
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1969
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1969

About this map

Joshua Tree National Monument dominates this mid-century survey, revealing a landscape defined by desert mining operations and ephemeral water sources. Prospecting history is etched across the Hexie Mountains and Pinto Mountains, where remote sites like the Old Swede Mine, Golden Bee Mine, and Snow Cloud Mine suggest the region's mineral-driven activity.

Survival in this arid environment is marked by isolated water points such as Ruby Lee Well and the Pinkham Well (Site). The map details the intricate drainage system of the Pinto Basin, including the curiously named Fried Liver Wash and Porcupine Wash. Early recreational development appears via the Cholla Garden Nature Trail, while the Old Black Eagle Mine Rd provides a look at the early transport network connecting the Eagle Mts to the interior basins.