1967 Map of Thorn Peak

About this map

Santa Maria Ranch sits along the southern course of the Santa Maria River in this arid landscape of western Yavapai County. The terrain is defined by complex drainage systems like Bridle Creek and Placeritas Creek, which cut through high desert elevations between Crosby Mountain and the prominent Thorn Peak. Resource extraction is evident through several mining sites, including the Sultan Mine and various unnamed mines and prospects scattered across the ridges. Water management is the primary marker of human activity here, with numerous vital points such as Moonshine Spring, Highway Spring, and Cottonwood Springs serving as critical landmarks. A network of jeep trails provides the only access into the interior, connecting remote water features like Fort Basin Tank and Crosby Mtn Tank within the rugged topography.