1978 Map of La Cinta Canyon

About this map

La Cinta Canyon and its complex network of seasonal drainages define this remote landscape at the boundary of Harding and San Miguel counties. The 1970s terrain is marked by landforms with descriptive local names like Kicking Foot Mesa, Turkey Head, and Red Tongue Mesa, indicating a region shaped by erosion and cattle ranching. Evidence of rural life and early habitation is found in small family landmarks, including the Kelly Cem and Laumbach Cem, along with the Wright Springs Windmill. The map reveals a land utilized for more than just grazing, as shown by a Gravel Pit near Porter Canyon and a Drill Hole in the southeastern corner. A system of jeep trails provides the primary means of navigating the canyons, such as Gato Cañon and Morris Canyon, which feed into the main La Cinta Creek drainage.