1989 Map of Mesa Chupinas

About this map

Anton Chico anchors the southwestern corner of this San Miguel County landscape, where the high desert terrain is defined by a series of prominent mesas and seasonal water sources. The area is dominated by the expansive Apache Mesa and South Mesa, carved by drainages such as Aguilar Creek and Agua Media Creek. A complex system of human intervention in the arid environment is evident through dozens of mapped Check Dams situated along the many small canyons and creeks. These features, along with names like Rincon Pasture, reflect a long-standing ranching economy dependent on scattered water points. Local history and genealogy interest is concentrated in the numerous named water sources that likely served as essential landmarks for settlers and travelers, including Alamito Springs, Chupinas Spring, and Culverdes Spring. The presence of a Pack Trail winding through the northern canyons further illustrates the historical movement across this varied topography.