2017 Map of Mesa Cortada

About this map

Cibola National Forest defines the southern portion of this McKinley County landscape, where the high-altitude terrain is marked by prominent volcanic and sedimentary formations. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail traverses the eastern sections, winding past the heights of Cerro Colorado and through the drainage of Arroyo Seccion. A complex network of ephemeral water sources and livestock tanks, such as Gonzolas Tank and Rincon Grande Tank, underscores the importance of water management in this arid environment. Significant landforms like San Miguel Creek Dome and Mesa Cortada rise above the surrounding canyons, including Los Indios Canyon and Chavez Canyon. The mapping of small springs like Ojo Navajo and Ojo de los Indios indicates a long-standing human reliance on localized water points throughout this high-desert region.