2017 Map of El Vado

About this map

The settlement of El Vado sits perched above the Rio Chama in this northern New Mexico landscape, dominated by the waters of the El Vado Reservoir. The topography is defined by the dramatic descent into Chama Canyon and Nutrias Canyon, where steep contours reveal a complex network of drainages feeding the river system. To the south, the boundary of the Santa Fe National Forest encompasses the remote territory surrounding Aragon Spring. A network of modern local roads, including Redondo Dr and Pajarito Rd, provides access to the mesas above the canyon floors. Significant water features like the Rio Nutrias and Rito de los Ojos carve through the high desert, illustrating the critical role of riparian corridors in this arid environment.