1953 Map of Navajo Peak

About this map

Rio Chama carves a deep path through this Rio Arriba landscape, serving as the central axis for a region defined by high mesas and intricate canyon systems. The map captures a high-desert environment where early human history is marked by Cliff Dwellings and unnamed Ruins situated near the river's path, while later agricultural history is anchored at the Juan Gallegos Ranch to the south. The transition between the Santa Fe National Forest and the Carson National Forest occurs across the plateau of Mesa de los Viejos. Transportation through this steep terrain is primarily limited to routes like the Hall Pack Trail, while water access for livestock or travelers is noted by scattered improvements such as Sargent Tank and Golondrino Tank. Peaks like Navajo Peak and the prominent ridge of The Hogback dominate the western horizon, overlooking the winding confluence of the Rio Gallina.