2010 Map of Gonzales Mesa

About this map

Gonzales Mesa and the surrounding high plateau country of Rio Arriba County are defined by a complex network of canyons and flat-topped mesas. In the northern reaches, Kaime Ranch represents a rare point of human settlement amidst the sprawling drainage systems of Ice Canyon and Albert Canyon. The landscape is carved by significant ephemeral waterways, most notably Cañon Largo and its various tributaries like Tapicito Creek and Forbes Canyon. This 2010 survey illustrates the remote infrastructure of the region, anchored by CO Road 523 and various unpaved routes that navigate between Encinada Mesa and Carter Mesa. The southeastern portion of the map transitions into Lapis Valley and Lapis Canyon, providing a clear look at the geological transitions between the mesa tops and the canyon floors.