1999 Map of Escondido Mountain

About this map

Escondido Mountain and the surrounding highlands of the Apache National Forest define this landscape in Catron County, New Mexico. The area is characterized by a sophisticated water management system for ranching and forest service needs, evidenced by numerous named improvements such as Fish Pond Tank, High Rim Tank, and the Slaughter Tank. The southern portion of the quadrangle shows localized development near the water, including the settlement of El Caso and recreation-oriented spots like Quemado Lake. Terrain features like Cañon del Leon and Paradise Canyon cut through the high country, while the presence of the Escondido Trail and various pipelines suggest a landscape utilized for both utility and access. Natural water sources like Leyba Spring and El Caso Spring provided critical anchors for activity in this arid environment before the turn of the twenty-first century.