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1959 Map of Moab 4 NE

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Moab 4 NE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1961
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1961

About this map

Arches National Monument dominates this 1959 topographic survey, revealing the intricate geological formations of the high desert before modern tourism infrastructure fully transformed the landscape. The map highlights iconic landmarks like Balanced Rock and the complex cluster of The Windows, which includes North-South Window and Turret Arch. To the north, the labyrinthine Fiery Furnace sits between the seasonal drainage of Salt Valley and Salt Valley Wash.

Evidence of early human presence in this arid environment is visible at Turnbow Cabin near Winter Camp Wash. The southern portion of the quadrangle showcases vertical features such as the Tower of Babel, Three Gossips, and The Organ near Courthouse Towers. This document captures the transition of the region from a remote geological curiosity into a nationally recognized monument, documented by the Department of the Interior through aerial photography and precision mapping.