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2011 Map of Apache Springs

Name: 2011 Topographic Map of Apache Springs
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2011
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2011

About this map

Apache Springs and the surrounding high desert terrain define this corner of San Miguel County in the early 21st century. The landscape is marked by substantial geographic formations such as Middle Mesa and the aptly named Mesita de los Ladrones, which rise above the winding paths of Tecolote Creek and Arroyo Leguino. These waterways and their seasonal drainage patterns, including the deep Tres Hermanos Cañon and Cañada Ancha, have historically dictated the placement of small rural outposts and ranches.

Evidence of ranching life is visible in the isolated placement of the Tecolote Windmill and scattered settlements like Lagunita, Aurupa, and Adlin. Connectivity through this arid environment is maintained by US Route 84 and the local Route 45, which skirt the edges of prominent mesas like La Mesita. The map reflects a sparsely populated area where life remains closely tied to the available water sources and the topography of the Sangre de Cristo foothills.