1996 Map of Mount Riley

About this map

Mount Riley and Cox Peak dominate this arid landscape in Doña Ana County, rising as prominent volcanic landmarks above the desert floor. This 1996 provisional survey illustrates a terrain defined by water scarcity and resource extraction, where life and movement revolve around scattered catchments such as Davids Tank, Twin Tanks, and Rattlesnake Tank. To the southeast, the slopes of the East Potrillo Mountains reveal several prospects, indicating a history of mineral exploration in these remote uplands. The absence of established towns or paved roads emphasizes the isolated character of the borderlands during the late twentieth century, with only unimproved tracks connecting features like Chalk Tank and Gap Tank. The map provides a precise record of the natural topography and the sparse human infrastructure required for ranching and mining in the Chihuahuan Desert.