2021 Map of Horsethief Mesa

About this map

Horse Thief Mesa and the surrounding high desert of Coconino County are defined by a complex network of canyons and mesas typical of the Arizona Plateau. This 2021 study reveals a landscape shaped by drainage systems like Kaibito Creek and Pedah Wash, which carve through the sandstone formations. The area is characterized by distinctive geological landmarks, notably Sitting Lizard Rock and the nearby Sitting Lizard Arch, providing precise locations for researchers of Southwestern geology and landforms. Access is primarily limited to Indian Rte 22, which cuts across the southwestern corner of the quadrangle. Beyond the roads, the presence of Circular Tank suggests the vital importance of water management in this arid environment, while features like Black Rock and Red Bluff serve as significant navigational waypoints across the open terrain.