2015 Map of Carrizo Mountain

About this map

The Coyote Mountains dominate this 2015 survey of the arid borderlands between San Diego and Imperial counties. The landscape is defined by its dramatic relief, where the peak of Carrizo Mtn towers over ancient geological formations like the Painted Gorge and the aptly named Fossil Canyon. These features indicate a deep history of tectonic and erosional forces that have carved the Colorado Desert floor. Human presence is concentrated along the southern corridor, marked by the Emory Ranch Airport and the winding course of Shell Canyon Rd. The map tracks several ephemeral watercourses, including Carrizo Cr, Jojoba Wash, and Palm Canyon Wash, which dictate the natural movement across this challenging terrain. The jurisdictional boundary of San Diego Co Imperial Co bisects the western half, tracing a straight line across the complex topography of Mortero Canyon.