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1973 Map of Payson North

Name: 1973 Topographic Map of Payson North
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1975
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1975

About this map

The northern limits of Payson and the neighboring community of Star Valley anchor this 1970s topographic study within the Tonto National Forest. The landscape is defined by a series of prominent mesas and dramatic rims, including Shoofly Mesa, Sunflower Mesa, and Birch Mesa, alongside the striking Diamond Rim. The East Verde River and its various tributaries, such as Webber Creek and Ellison Creek, carve through the terrain, creating a network of canyons and draws that supported early ranching and forestry.

Evidence of local development and scientific infrastructure is clear, from the Payson Airport south of the corporate boundary to the Tonto National Forest Seismological Observatory in the eastern hills. Rural landmarks such as the Sycamore Forest Camp and numerous water tanks like Shoofly Tanks and Racetrack Tank reflect the mid-century land use patterns of Gila County. Local roads such as Saddle Lane and Rancho Rd provide specific points of interest for genealogists tracing property near the town's edge.