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2017 Map of The Flat Tops

Name: 2017 Topographic Map of The Flat Tops
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2017
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2017

About this map

The San Rafael Desert dominates this terrain in Emery County, characterized by a series of prominent mesas and volcanic features. Large geological formations like The Big Flat Tops and The Flat Tops define the southern portion of the quadrangle, where the land rises sharply toward high plateaus. These isolated elevations are complemented by distinct landmarks such as Spire Point, Rattlesnake Butte, and Wildcat Butte, which serve as natural navigation points across the arid landscape.

Hydrological features are sparse but critical, represented by Sweetwater Spring and the drainage of Dugout Wash. Transportation across this remote sector relies on unpaved routes, specifically the Lower San Rafael RD and Co RD 1011, which provide the only access through the desert floor. The map records the intersection of high desert topography and the few vital water sources that have historically supported transit and life in this part of the American West.