1963 Map of Purgatory Canyon

About this map

The Ute Mountain Indian Reservation occupies much of this landscape, where the high desert terrain is deeply incised by a complex network of arroyos and canyons. Significant industrial activity is evident in the northern and southern sectors, marked by the Barker Creek Gas Field and the Verde Oil Field. These energy developments are interconnected by a system of pipelines and a Dome Road that navigates the difficult topography. Cultural history is anchored by the presence of the Mokie Indian Ruin situated near the northern border, providing a glimpse into the ancient habitation of the region. The map captures a transition between the elevated Dome and the lower drainage basins of Barker Arroyo and Little Barker Arroyo, which feed toward Blue Lake and Jones Lake. This 1979 photorevision also highlights the intricate series of side canyons like Coalbank Canyon and Oak Springs Canyon that define the eastern boundary with La Plata County.