1964 Map of Steep Creek Bench

About this map

Dixie National Forest defines this high-desert landscape in Garfield County, captured through aerial photography and field checking during the mid-1960s. The terrain is characterized by expansive mesas and deep drainage systems, including Steep Creek Bench and the prominent Circle Cliffs. Evidence of early cattle ranching and backcountry traversal is visible through the isolated Long Neck Cabin and an extensive network of Pack Trails and Jeep Trails that navigate the labyrinthine canyons. Water sources are vital landmarks in this arid environment, with Frisky Creek, Steep Creek, and various Springs providing essential stops for travelers. The map illustrates a period before modern development, focusing on the natural geomorphology from Impossible Peak down into the winding depths of The Gulch and Rattlesnake Canyon.