1988 Map of Tapeats Amphitheater

About this map

Tapeats Amphitheater dominates the southern landscape of this 1988 survey, illustrating the complex drainage systems of the north rim before they reach the Colorado River. The map highlights a dramatic transition from the high plateaus of the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Game Preserve down through the sheer drops of the Grand Canyon National Park. Of particular interest to hydrologists and hikers is the emergence of Thunder River and the nearby Thunder Spring, which flow into Tapeats Creek. The presence of Tapeats Cave and Thunder Cave near these water sources points to the extensive subterranean systems typical of this limestone-rich environment. To the west, the Kanab Creek Wilderness protects the reach of Kanab Creek, while to the south, the river passes through the Granite Narrows and the turbulent Hundred and Thirtyfive Mile Rapids.