Loading map...

1961 Map of Carson

Name: 1961 Topographic Map of Carson
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1963
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1963

About this map

Carson National Forest dominates the western reaches of this High Desert landscape, where the high plateau is incised by complex drainage systems like Arroyo Aguaje de la Petaca and Arroyo Ashbury. The settlement of Carson and the Carson PO sit near the northern boundary, while the village of Pilar is situated at the base of the dramatic Cañon del Rio Grande. This gorge creates a sharp topographical divide, with the Rio Grande flowing through steep-walled canyons toward the southern edge of the quadrangle.

Water management is central to the area's geography, evidenced by features such as Mondragon Tank, Clarkson Tank, and Barnett Well. The eastern portion of the map showcases the confluence of several seasonal streams, including Cieneguilla and Rito Piedra Lumbre, which feed into the main river valley. This 1961 survey provides a look at the rural character of Taos County before significant modern development altered the balance between the national forest and private landholdings.