2020 Map of San Mateo

About this map

The settlement of San Mateo sits at the foot of the high country, serving as a hub for the surrounding ranching and forest lands. The landscape is defined by its water management, with numerous named tanks such as Bull Pasture Tank and Youngs Tank sustaining livestock across the varying elevations. To the south, the terrain rises sharply toward La Jara Mesa and the prominent Cerro Colorado, where the Cibola National Forest encompasses deep drainages like El Rito Canyon and Rafael Canyon. This 2020 survey reveals a complex network of forest and county roads that provide access to remote springs, including Lobo Springs and Rock Spring. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail winds through the southeastern corner of the quadrangle, highlighting the area's importance for transcontinental navigation. The presence of the San Mateo Reservoir and the drainage of San Mateo Creek underscore the critical role of water in this high-altitude environment.