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1984 Map of Frijoles

Name: 1984 Topographic Map of Frijoles
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1993
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1993

About this map

Yapashi Ruins and the ancient Stone Lions Shrine sit high on the mesas of this high-desert landscape, reflecting the deep indigenous history of the Pajarito Plateau. The map captures a detailed view of the Bandelier National Monument during the mid-1980s, showcasing a terrain defined by deep volcanic canyons and flat-topped mesas like Burnt Mesa and Pajarito Mesa. Archeological sites are documented throughout Frijoles Canyon, including the Tyuonyi Ruin, Ceremonial Cave, and Rainbow House Ruin near the Monument Headquarters.

Modern infrastructure from the southern edge of Los Alamos contrasts with the remote character of the Bandelier Wilderness. To the south, the Rio Grande flows into Cochiti Lake, marking the lowest elevations of the survey. The mapping reveals a complex transition between the scientific facilities of the plateau and preserved ancestral lands, including portions of the San Ildefonso Indian Reservation and the Ramon Vigil Grant.