2011 Map of Knowles Canyon

About this map

Lake Powell dominates this desert landscape in San Juan County, where its waters fill the lower reaches of a complex network of sandstone drainages. The map details the intricate shoreline created as the reservoir flooded ancient canyons, including the long reaches of Knowles Canyon and Forgotten Canyon. High above the water line, vertical features like the Tapestry Wall and the flat expanse of Olympia Bar represent the earlier geological and prospecting history of the Colorado River corridor before the construction of Glen Canyon Dam. The survey also identifies vital water sources in this arid environment, such as Lone Pine Spring, and numerous tributary systems like Warm Springs Canyon and Crystal Springs Canyon. This topographic record provides a specific look at the intersection of modern recreation and deep-time geology at a time when water levels and land access continue to define the character of the region.