1952 Map of Rio Blanco

About this map

Rio Blanco sits at the northern edge of this high-altitude landscape, where the confluence of Piceance Creek and other smaller drainages shaped the early development of this portion of the Western Slope. The map highlights the significant intersection of natural geology and federal energy interests, dominated by the Naval Oil Shale Reserve. This vast administrative area is bordered by the dramatic formations of the Book Cliffs and the Grand Hogback, illustrating the difficult terrain that early settlers and surveyors navigated.