1965 Map of Lilley Mountain

About this map

Trotter Cabin and White Creek Cabin serve as isolated outposts in this 1965 survey of the Gila National Forest, where the terrain transitions from high mesas to deep river canyons. The landscape is defined by the convergence of the Middle Fork Gila River and the West Fork Gila River, creating a complex drainage network including Lilley Creek and Chicken Coop Canyon. Human presence in this wilderness is marked by primitive infrastructure such as the Swinging Cross Trail and Trotter Trail, alongside the lonely site of the Papineau Grave. Elevated features like Lilley Mountain and the Jerky Mountains overlook Jackson Mesa and McKenna Park, revealing a region defined by its water sources, including Lilley Park Spring and Horse Spring, which were vital for backcountry travel and seasonal grazing.