2016 Map of Pinkerton Mesa

About this map

The settlement of Marvel stands as the primary community in this arid, high-elevation landscape along the Colorado and New Mexico border. Named for its local topography, Pinkerton Mesa dominates the central terrain, which is deeply carved by a network of drainage features like McDermott Arroyo and Soda Springs Canyon. The region's geological character is defined by prominent volcanic and erosional features, including Cinder Butte, N Cinder Butte, and the Cinder Bluffs to the southwest. Land use is largely defined by the township and range survey system, visible through the grid of rural routes such as Co RD 131 and Indian Rte 114. Evidence of the area's human history is preserved in family-named landmarks such as Orrie Walker Flat and Clyde Walker Canyon, which suggest a legacy of ranching and homesteading in this corner of San Juan County.