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2010 Map of Wetherill Mesa

Name: 2010 Topographic Map of Wetherill Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2010
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2010

About this map

Ancient architectural sites and resource extraction marks define this portion of the Verde Mesa plateau. The landscape is characterized by a dense network of canyons, including Rock Canyon and Long Canyon, where numerous ancestral dwellings are situated. Significant named structures such as Long House, Mug House, and Step House are clustered along the cliffs of Wetherill Mesa, accessible via the namesake Wetherill Mesa Rd. Near the North Rim, evidence of industry appears at the Mesa Verde Mine and Jackson Mine, showing the intersection of prehistoric heritage and later mineral interests.

Researchers will find a highly detailed record of cliff-side habitations, from the Far View Group to the remote Inaccessible House. Landforms like Pulpit Rock and Pictograph Point provide clear navigational landmarks across the mesas. The drainage patterns of the East Fork Ute Canyon and Navajo Canyon illustrate the complex topography that shaped both ancient settlement patterns and modern preservation efforts.