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1953 Map of Lake Canyon

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Lake Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1956
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1956

About this map

Colorado River and San Juan River meander through this 1953 survey, illustrating a landscape of deep canyons and significant archaeological sites. The presence of Cliff Dwellings near a Waterfall along Lake Canyon points to a long history of human occupation in this remote corner of southeastern Utah. Navigation through the complex terrain is marked by the Hall Trail, while the riverbanks feature numerous bars such as Amphitheater Bar, Boston Bar, and Shock Bar, which were historical points of interest for early river travelers.

The southern portion of the map is dominated by the Navajo Indian Reservation, where the San Juan River makes its dramatic Great Bend. Topographical landmarks like Iron Top Mesa and Nakai Dome define the high ground between the watercourses. This document preserves the geographical state of the region before the creation of Lake Powell, documenting drainages like Moqui Gulch and Alcove Canyon in their original riverine context.