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2014 Map of Wet Bottom Mesa

Name: 2014 Topographic Map of Wet Bottom Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2014
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2014

About this map

The Verde River carves a winding path through this corner of the Tonto National Forest, defining the boundary between Yavapai and Gila counties. The landscape is characterized by a series of prominent elevated plateaus, including Wet Bottom Mesa, Canoe Mesa, and the tiered heights of Upper Racetrack Mesa and Lower Racetrack Mesa. This rugged topography has historically dictated the movement of water and travelers, evidenced by the presence of vital water sources like Peach Tank, Petes Spring, and the Table Mountain Tank.

A notable geographic feature is the sharp oxbow of the river at Mule Shoe Bend, located just north of the Red Creek Rapids. This area represents a classic Southwestern drainage system where seasonal washes like Spring Wash and Dry Wash cut through the high mesas. The nomenclature, such as Petes Cabin Mesa and Goat Camp Canyon, suggests a history of local ranching or seasonal camps in this arid environment.