2017 Map of Palo Blanco Mountain

About this map

Palo Blanco Mountain dominates this portion of northeastern New Mexico, where the high plains break into a complex system of drainage canyons and volcanic landforms. The terrain is defined by dramatic elevation changes, notably at Rincon Peak and the Chico Hills, which overlook the seasonal headwaters of Palo Blanco Cr and Carrizo Cr. Human presence in this arid landscape is marked primarily by ranch roads like Yucca Rd and Kennedy Rd, connecting isolated water sources such as Alamo Spring and Barela Lake. The eastern boundary of the map follows the straight-line border of the Colfax Co Union Co line, illustrating the rigid political divisions superimposed over the winding natural geography of Torcido Canyon and Barela Canyon. This survey provides a precise view of the rural grazing lands and topographical landmarks used by generations of local ranchers.