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1956 Map of Moab

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Moab
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

The Colorado River and Gunnison River carve through this high desert region, anchoring a landscape defined by deep canyons and expansive plateaus. The settlement of Moab serves as a central hub, surrounded by the dramatic geology of Arches National Monument and the northern reaches of Canyonlands National Park. The industrial and agricultural character of the era is evident in the cluster of towns along the San Miguel River, including the mining and milling centers of Uravan, Nucla, and Naturita.

Transportation infrastructure follows the natural topography, with the Denver and Rio Grande Western RR skirting the northern Book Cliffs through stops like Cisco and Sagers Station. To the east, the Uncompahgre Plateau rises sharply, separating the desert lowlands from the river valleys of Montrose and Delta. This survey documents a transitional period when traditional rail-side outposts like White House Station existed alongside emerging national park boundaries and the established cattle-ranching communities of Paradox Valley and Sinbad Valley.