2000 Map of Ortigalita Peak

About this map

Ortigalita Ridge dominates this California landscape, defining the rugged boundary where Merced, San Benito, and Fresno Counties converge. At its highest point, Ortigalita Peak overlooks a complex system of drainage and seasonal water sources, including Piedra Azul Creek and Ortigalita Creek. This survey reflects the arid character of the Inner Coast Ranges at the start of the 21st century, where human activity is primarily represented by dispersed prospects and cattle-related water improvements like Carranza Spring and Piedra Azul Spring. To the east, the land descends into the Little Pan Oche Valley, while the western reaches are carved by Molina Canyon and Piedra Azul Canyon. The map preserves the large-scale Spanish land grant boundaries of Panoche De San Juan and Y Los Carrisalitos, illustrating how historical property lines continue to shape the geography of the California interior.