1995 Map of Latir Peak

About this map

Sangre de Cristo Mountains dominate this high-altitude landscape in northern New Mexico, where the peaks of the Culebra Range meet the vast timberlands of the Carson National Forest Wilderness. In the mid-1990s, this area served as a focal point for both winter recreation at the Rio Costilla Ski Area and remote backcountry exploration. Notable summits like Latir Peak, Virsvylvia Peak, and Baldy Mountain surround a series of glacial basins, including the cluster of Latir Lakes and Heart Lake. The map reveals the intricate land management boundaries of the era, specifically the Grant Boundary and National Forest Boundary, which intersect near the Latir Rock Cairn. A lone prospect and the isolated Baldy Cabin are the only signs of human industry and habitation in this high-alpine wilderness, illustrating the transition from early mining interests to modern conservation and recreational use.