1964 Map of Picacho

About this map

Mining operations in the Trigo Mountains define the northern half of this 1960s desert landscape, where numerous claims such as the Red Cloud Mine and Dives Mine sit at the ends of winding jeep trails. The southern portion of the quadrangle is dominated by the Colorado River, which forms the boundary between Arizona and California. Along this river corridor, the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge encompasses a network of backwaters including Island Lake and Clear Lake. The small settlement of Picacho serves as a hub near the riverbank, adjacent to the Picacho Mill (Ruins) and the Picacho State Recreation Area. Further east, the Yuma Proving Ground indicates the military presence in this arid region, while drainage systems like Red Cloud Wash and Arrastra Wash carve through the rugged interior towards the river valley.