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2014 Map of Big Lue Mountains

Name: 2014 Topographic Map of Big Lue Mountains
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2014
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2014

About this map

Big Lue Mountains dominate this high-desert landscape along the Arizona and New Mexico state line, where the high ridges of the Apache National Forest meet the Gila National Forest. The map reveals a complex network of water sources essential for cattle ranching and survival in this arid environment, including numerous named tanks such as Bear Track Tank, Old Collett Tank, and Rock Bottom Tank. The terrain is deeply incised by steep drainages like Sixshooter Canyon and Beef Eater Canyon, reflecting a landscape shaped by intermittent water flow.

Evidence of human passage and high-altitude navigation is visible through named gaps and peaks, notably Stockton Gap and the distinctive Needles Eye formation. The presence of State Hwy 78 provides the primary corridor through these mountains, crossing the state line between Greenlee County and Grant County. For those researching the geography of the American Southwest, the map identifies specific springs like Maggett Spring and Dunigan Spring that have long served as vital landmarks in this challenging borderland.