1963 Map of Hay Mesa

About this map

Gila National Forest encompasses this high-altitude landscape in southwestern New Mexico, defined by the winding course of the Mimbres River and its major tributary, the South Fork Mimbres River. The terrain is characterized by massive elevated formations like Hay Mesa and Kelly Mesa, bisected by deep drainage systems such as McKnight Canyon and Powderhorn Canyon. Local ranching and land use in the early 1960s are evidenced by named outposts including the Diamond Bar Ranch, Bloodwood Place, and Cooney Place. Water management in this arid environment is highlighted by a series of upland catchments like Hay Mesa Tank, Powderhorn Tank, and Kelly Tank. A significant stretch of the Continental Divide Pack Trail traverses the western ridges, passing over Signboard Saddle and near Rocky Point, marking a primitive transportation network that predates modern road development in these mountains.