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2022 Map of Rio Blanco

Name: 2022 Topographic Map of Rio Blanco
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2022
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2022

About this map

Rio Blanco sits at the northern edge of this high-altitude landscape, where the Piceance Basin meets the dramatic rising elevations of the Grand Hogback and Roan Cliffs. The terrain is defined by a dense network of drainage systems, including the headwaters of Piceance Cr, Government Cr, and Trapper Cr. These waterways cut through the high plateau country, creating a complex series of gulches and draws such as Mullen Gulch and Tichner Draw.

Water management in this arid environment is evident through features like Larson Reservoir Number 2 and Harris Reservoir, which support local ranching or industrial needs. The map reveals a land utilized for transit and recreation, shown by the extensive primitive road network including Government Rd and numerous backcountry routes like the Trapper Creek Trl. From the summit of Monument Peak to the deep incisions of Bitter Cr, the geography reflects the classic high-desert plateau character of Western Colorado.