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2010 Map of Old Blue Mountain

Name: 2010 Topographic Map of Old Blue Mountain
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2010
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2010

About this map

Old Blue Mountain anchors this high-desert landscape in Brewster County, where the topography is defined by a network of steep drainage systems and isolated ranching outposts. The terrain is deeply incised by Gilliland Canyon in the north and the converging paths of Spring Canyon, Jail Canyon, and Stump Canyon to the east. These intermittent watercourses reflect the arid climate, where life and livestock historically clustered around established water sources like Frenchman Tank, Christmas Tank, and Hidden Tank.

Evidence of local land use is centered on remote properties such as Easterwood Ranch and Nichols Ranch, linked by the gravel path of Benge Ranch Rd. The presence of Ainsleys Cabin near the head of Blue Canyon suggests a legacy of seasonal habitation or early settlement in this remote corner of West Texas. This 2010 survey illustrates the continued importance of these named canyons and water tanks in navigating and working the Chihuahuan Desert landscape.