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2022 Map of Big Hole Canyon

Name: 2022 Topographic Map of Big Hole Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2022
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2022

About this map

The Comanche National Grassland encompasses this high plains landscape in Baca County, defined by a complex network of dry washes and essential water sources. This modern survey illustrates how vital small springs and seasonal creeks remain to the local topography, with Major Spring, Big Hole Spring, and Hatfield Spring marking critical points across the terrain. These water sources are often tucked within the dramatic relief of features like Big Hole Canyon and Whitby Canyon, which slice through the plateau.

Evidence of the cattle ranching legacy that persists within the grassland is seen in the sparse road network, including Co RD G and Co RD 8, which navigate the mesas. To the south, Little Black Mesa stands as a prominent geological feature, flanked by Tharp Canyon and the headwaters of N Carrizo Cr. The map provides a detailed view of the land partitions and natural drainages like Cañon Gallinas that have dictated human activity in this corner of Colorado for generations.