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1952 Map of San Rafael Knob

Name: 1952 Topographic Map of San Rafael Knob
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1964
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1964

About this map

The San Rafael Swell dominates this 1952 topographic study, revealing a landscape of high desert mesas and deep erosion in the heart of Sinbad Country. At the center of the sheet, San Rafael Knob stands as the highest point, surrounded by distinct geological formations such as The Blocks, Chimney Rock, and the curiously named Joe and His Dog. These landmarks served as vital navigational aids for the early ranchers and miners who traversed this region.

Signs of human endurance in the desert appear at Swazy Cabin and the Lucky Strike Mine, while the presence of a Landing Strip near the head of Iron Wash reflects mid-century aerial survey or extraction efforts. Local place names like Justensen Flats, Cactus Flats, and Taylor Flat highlight the scattered areas of level ground utilized within the network of drainages including Secret Canyon and Kimball Draw. Traces of older roads like the Sinbad Road connect these points, providing a view into the transit patterns of Emery County during the post-war era.