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2020 Map of Blue Mountain

Name: 2020 Topographic Map of Blue Mountain
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2020
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2020

About this map

The San Mateo Mountains dominate this high-altitude landscape within the Cibola National Forest, where steep canyons and volcanic peaks define the terrain of Socorro County. Named summits such as Blue Mountain, Apache Kid Peak, and Teepee Peak rise above a complex network of drainages including Kelly Canyon and San Mateo Canyon. This environment is notably characterized by its high density of isolated water sources, which were critical for both wildlife and early travelers in this arid region.

Researchers will find a detailed inventory of these vital points, including Indian Spring, Turkey Springs, and Hidden Spring. Long-established trail systems and landmarks like the Drift Fence and the Post route suggest the area's history of high-country ranching. Geological features such as Skeleton Ridge and the Tonto Basin further illustrate the broken, high-desert topography found in this corner of New Mexico.