2016 Map of Kiowa Hill

About this map

Kiowa Hill and the surrounding volcanic terrain of the San Luis Hills dominate this portion of the southern San Luis Valley. The landscape is defined by the sharp transition between these arid uplands and the fertile riparian corridor of the Rio Grande. Irrigation infrastructure, critical to local agriculture, is represented by the Taos Valley Ditch Number 2 and Taos Valley Ditch Number 1, which draw from the river's flow. Significant geographical landmarks such as Island Rock and the deep John James Canyon punctuate the high ground, while the eastern edge follows the dramatic Cañon del Rio Grande where the river cuts through the valley floor. Transportation and water management are centralized at the Costilla Crossing Bridge and nearby catchment areas like Apache Reservoir and Park Lake.