2011 Map of Magdalena

About this map

Mining history dominates this high-altitude landscape in the Magdalena Mountains of Socorro County. The town of Magdalena serves as the gateway to a dense network of historic silver, lead, and zinc operations concentrated near the settlement of Kelly. The topography is etched with an extensive system of shafts and adits, including the Vindicator Mine, Graphic Shaft, and the Waldo Tunnel. These industrial features are set against the steep slopes of Tip Top Mountain and North Baldy, where the terrain transitions into the protected lands of Cibola National Forest. Outside the mining core, the land supports ranching and recreation, evidenced by Courtney Ranch and the Water Canyon Campground. The map preserves the specific locations of remote sites like Hardscrabble Camp and Frenchies Cabin, offering a clear view of the area's transition from a booming mining district to a modern center for ranching and forest access.