2013 Map of Circle Mesa

About this map

Circle Mesa and the surrounding high desert terrain dominate this Grant County landscape, providing a clear view of the complex drainages and elevations within the Gila National Forest. The map documents a rugged topography defined by deep incisions like Blacksmith Canyon and Cottonwood Canyon, which descend toward the Mangas Valley. This area serves as a critical transition between the Big Burro Mountains and the Little Burro Mountains, with US Hwy 180 carving a path through the canyon floors. For researchers, the presence of localized water sources like Dud Tank, Cane Spring, and Aqua Alta Tank highlights the essential infrastructure for ranching and forest management in this arid environment. The naming of family-linked landmarks such as Barney Kerr Canyon and Fleming Canyon offers a grounded connection to the local history of land use and settlement in this portion of New Mexico.