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1952 Map of Horse Mountain

Name: 1952 Topographic Map of Horse Mountain
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

The Grand Hogback dominates the southern landscape of this 1952 study, a prominent geological ridge that separates the high plateau country from the valley floor. During this era, the region supported a specialized mountain economy centered on natural resource extraction and high-altitude grazing. Evidence of local industry is visible through multiple Coal Mines and a specifically noted Coal Mine (Active) located near the southeastern corner. This area also includes a significant portion of the Naval Oil Shale Reserve, reflecting the strategic energy interests of the federal government in Garfield County during the mid-20th century.

Rural education is anchored by the Upper Rifle Creek School, serving families scattered along the drainage of Middle Rifle Creek. The landscape is largely protected by the White River National Forest, where topography is defined by the heights of Horse Mountain and the elongated spine of Parker Ridge. Transportation in this difficult terrain is facilitated by the Government Road, which skirts the southern foothills near Government Creek.