2013 Map of Las Tablas

About this map

Las Tablas and Petaca serve as the primary human settlements in this high-elevation landscape within the Carson National Forest. The geography is defined by a series of rugged mesas and canyons, most notably Mesa de la Jarita and Petaca Mesa, which rise above the drainages of the Rio Tusas and Rio Vallecitos. A prominent landmark for the region is the Kiowa Mountain Lookout atop Kiowa Mtn, providing a strategic vantage point over the complex terrain of Kiowa Canyon and Hondo Canyon. This area's water management is visible through numerous named tanks and springs, such as McIntyre Spring and Hondito Tank, which were essential for ranching and forest operations. The map also captures the distinct geological features like Big Rock and the narrow passage of Tusas Box, illustrating the natural constraints on movement and settlement in Rio Arriba County.