1966 Map of Trail Canyon

About this map

Indian Ruins and Cliff Dwellings dot the complex topography of this Southwestern landscape, concentrated along the steep walls of Mancos Canyon. The territory is partitioned between Mesa Verde National Park, the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, and the Ute Mountain Indian Reservation, reflecting a history of archaeological preservation and indigenous land management. The Mancos River snakes through the western portion of the quadrangle, flanked by the high elevations of Weber Mountain and the East Rim. Transport in this mid-1960s era was dominated by specialized routes including the Wheeler Trail, Jeep Trails, and various pack trails necessary for navigating the deep cuts of Bear Canyon and Swift Canyon. Faint red lines mark fence boundaries across the high mesas, while water management is evidenced by small catchments such as Upper Reservoir and Johnny Pond.