1980 Map of The Guardian Angels

About this map

Upper Kolob Plateau and Horse Pasture Plateau define the high elevations of this 1980 survey, where the dramatic geology of Zion National Park begins its descent into deep canyons and mesa formations. The quadrangle is dominated by the namesake peaks of North Guardian Angel and South Guardian Angel, separated by the high Guardian Angel Pass. The hydrological patterns are striking, with the Great West Fork and Left Fork carving through the sandstone, joined by numerous drainages like Wildcat Canyon and Russell Gulch. This map illustrates the transition from the high lava-capped mesas, such as Lava Point and Pocket Mesa, to the lower desert benches of Smith Mesa. Pack trails like the Hop Valley Trail provide the primary access through this complex vertical landscape, connecting remote points like Spendlove Knoll and the Northgate Peaks.