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2010 Map of Ruin Canyon

Name: 2010 Topographic Map of Ruin Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2010
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2010

About this map

Ruin Canyon and its network of deep drainage systems define this landscape in Montezuma County, where modern energy extraction meets older mining claims. The north is marked by the Papoose Canyon Oil Field, while the central plateau around Squaw Point shows a cluster of named workings including the Yellow Lizard Mine, Roberta Jean Mine, and Le-Ru Mines. These features suggest a history of varied mineral interests and geological exploration in a region better known for its archaeological significance.

Transportation throughout the area relies on a series of county roads and more informal paths like Grandpa's Trl, which navigate the plateaus between Cow Canyon and Hovenweep Canyon. In the east, the Sylvan Cemetery stands as a quiet marker of early settlement amidst the desert terrain. This 2010 survey provides a look at the industrial and cultural markers that remain active or significant in this corner of Colorado.