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1971 Map of Mesa Larga

Name: 1971 Topographic Map of Mesa Larga
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

Laughlin Peak dominates the southern skyline of this high-altitude landscape in Colfax County, rising above a series of prominent tabletop formations. The intricate topography is defined by the expansive Mesa Larga and Blosser Mesa, which are separated by deep drainages like Blosser Arroyo and Cedar Canyon. These geological features tell a story of erosion and high-plains geography, where water sources like Little Water Cr and scattered springs provided essential resources for ranching and travel in this arid environment.

Evidence of historical transit and land use appears through the presence of the Fort Union railroad line and an isolated Cem located near the base of the mesas. The map also captures the varied terrain of Loco Mesa and Kiowa Flats, illustrating the transition from volcanic peaks to broad, flat grazing lands. This survey provides a precise record of the regional landmarks used by early surveyors and settlers, including Nipple Peak and Troyburg Mesa.