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1987 Map of Moss Back Butte

Name: 1987 Topographic Map of Moss Back Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1987
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1987

About this map

Natural Bridges National Monument dominates the northeastern section of this San Juan County survey, showcasing the dramatic erosional spans of Sipapu Bridge, Kachina Bridge, and Owachomo Bridge. These massive geologic formations are situated within a complex system of drainages, including White Canyon, Armstrong Canyon, and To-ko-chi Canyon. Further south, the Emigrant Trail traverses the landscape near the Dripping Step Point, marking a path through the sandstone terrain used by early travelers.

The topography is characterized by high mesas and abrupt vertical drops, such as the Moss Back Cliffs and the prominent Moss Back Butte. Cultural and historical markers appear in the form of the Horse Collar Ruin and scattered mining activity indicated by several prospects and an adit near Atomic Rock. Unique landmarks like The Needle and The Windgate punctuate the Tables of the Sun, providing distinct navigational waypoints across this high desert plateau.