Loading map...

2023 Map of Cottonwood Canyon

Name: 2023 Topographic Map of Cottonwood Canyon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2023
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2023

About this map

The Continental Divide winds through this high-elevation landscape within the Cibola National Forest, marking the geological spine of the Zuñi Mountains. The terrain is defined by deep incisions like Cottonwood Canyon and Peavine Canyon, which descend from prominent features such as the Lookout Mountain Rim. In this arid environment, the presence of numerous named water sources like Twin Springs, Windmill Tank, and Rock Stock Tank suggests a land managed for grazing and forestry.

Evidence of early 21st-century recreation and land management is found in the designated motorized trails, including Motorized 314 Tr and Motorized 309 Tr, which navigate the slopes between Las Tusas Valley and Sawyer Creek. The map also captures the political boundary between McKinley and Cibola counties, providing a modern look at this corner of New Mexico where the high desert meets the forest.