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1966 Map of Wetherill Mesa

Name: 1966 Topographic Map of Wetherill Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1986
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1986

About this map

Cliff Dwellings and Indian Ruins are found across this desert landscape, where deep canyons divide high mesas within Mesa Verde National Park. The survey illustrates a complex archaeological environment, identifying named structures like Long House, Mug House, and Step House along the western edges of Wetherill Mesa. These sites reflect a long history of human habitation and stone construction, complemented by more isolated landmarks such as Inaccessible House and the Navajo Watch Tower.

The western portion of the sheet is defined by the Ute Indian Reservation Boundary, which cuts across the drainage of Horse Canyon and Wildhorse Mesa. Water sources are vital but infrequent, appearing as isolated points like Horse Springs and Rock Springs. This 1960s documentation provides a clear look at the spatial relationship between the park's famous ancient dwellings and the surrounding reservation lands before modern infrastructure expanded further.