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1967 Map of Ice Caves

Name: 1967 Topographic Map of Ice Caves
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1971
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1971

About this map

Cerro Bandera and the surrounding volcanic landscape of El Malpais define this late-1960s survey of the high desert. The map captures a high-altitude wilderness where the Continental Divide winds through the Cibola National Forest, crossing a complex terrain of prehistoric volcanic activity. Notable geologic features include the Bandera Crater, Lava Crater, and the Twin Craters, which stand as prominent landmarks above extensive fields of Lava.

Evidence of human movement and utility in this arid environment is found at Brights Well and a remote Drill Hole, while a Pack Trail cuts through the valley between the Cerritos De Jaspe and the lower terrain of Little Hole-In-The-Wall. The namesake Ice Caves are situated near the northern edge of the volcanic flow, marking a site where subterranean temperatures preserve ice year-round despite the exposed desert sun above.