1953 Map of Orange Cliffs

About this map

Orange Cliffs define the edge of a high plateau in this mid-century survey, looking down into the intricate sandstone canyons of the Green and Colorado River systems. The map shows the region just as the waters of Lake Powell were projected to rise, with blue hatching indicating areas destined to be submerged at an elevation of 3700 feet. This creates a fascinating record of the original riverbank features along Cataract Canyon, including several named rapids. Deep in the backcountry, the landscape is marked by isolated landmarks like Teapot Rock, The Hat, and the transition from Gordon Flats to the complex erosion of The Maze. Local history and geography enthusiasts can trace the early jeep trails and a remote landing strip on Flint Flat that provided some of the only access to this labyrinthine terrain.