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1972 Map of Pillar Butte

Name: 1972 Topographic Map of Pillar Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1977
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1977

About this map

The Great Rift and the vast Wapi Lava Flow dominate this stark volcanic landscape along the boundary of Blaine Co and Power Co. This 1972 survey documents a geologic environment defined by basaltic vents and subterranean features rather than human settlement. The map reveals an intricate network of volcanic landmarks, including the prominent Pillar Butte and several notable cavernous formations such as Crystal Ice Cave, Creons Cave, and Lariat Cave.

Evidence of geological exploration and remote infrastructure is sparse, limited to a few Jeep Trails, a Water Tank, and a Test Well. The presence of Kings Bowl and Inferno Chasm suggests the violent volcanic history of the Snake River Plain. For researchers and geologists, the map provides a precise record of these specific vent locations and fissures before modern tourism or further environmental shifts altered the accessibility of sites like Cottrells Blowout.