1971 Map of Lone Butte

About this map

South Mountain dominates the landscape of this 1971 orthophotoquad, its rocky ridges and deep desert canyons captured through high-altitude aerial photography. The terrain transitions sharply from the rugged slopes of the mountain to the industrial and agricultural developments of the Salt River Valley below. A significant portion of the lower elevations is occupied by the Phoenix Proving Grounds, where a complex network of test tracks and circular courses is visible against the desert floor. To the south, the namesake Lone Butte stands as a distinct landmark amidst the patterned fields and irrigation canals. This orthophoto edition provides a precise visual record of the desert's edge before significant residential expansion, highlighting the contrast between the natural geography of the range and the structured land use of the proving grounds and surrounding farms.