Loading map...

2017 Map of Mesa Chupinas

Name: 2017 Topographic Map of Mesa Chupinas
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2017
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2017

About this map

Mesa Chupinas rises as the central landmark in this high-altitude San Miguel County landscape, surrounded by a complex network of plateaus and deep drainages. The area is defined by its ranching heritage, with prominent properties like Lemita Ranch and Rael Ranch located in the western portion of the quadrangle. These settlements are positioned near the rugged incisions of the Cañon de las Mujeres, suggesting a reliance on the scattered water sources that dot the terrain.

Water is a critical element across this arid topography, with named sources including Rincon Spring, Alamito Springs, and Calverdes Spring providing vital points for livestock and wildlife. Seasonal drainages such as Aguilar Cr, Agua Media Cr, and Canada Gomez carve through the tablelands of Mesa Apache, East Mesa, and Mesas Cuatas. The geography here illustrates a classic Southwestern land-use pattern where flat-topped mesas provide seasonal grazing while the lower canyons and springs support permanent ranching infrastructure.