2017 Map of Chromo Mountain

About this map

The Continental Divide defines the spine of this high-elevation landscape, where the state line between Colorado and New Mexico meets the boundary of Archuleta and Rio Arriba counties. At the heart of the terrain, Chromo Mountain rises above a complex drainage system that feeds the Rio Chamita and the extensive network of Willow Creek. The southern portion of the map reveals the small settlement of Willow Creek, situated near where the Azotea Tunnel (labeled also as Azotea Tun) suggests mid-century water management infrastructure cutting through the mountains. Dozens of small water bodies and seasonal flows, such as Beaver Lake, Clydes Corral Lake, and Las Ranas Lake, are scattered across the high basins. These landmarks, along with Stove Ridge and Tuck Canyon, provide critical orientation for those studying the hydrologic and geographic transitions of the San Juan Mountains region.