2017 Map of The Volcanoes

About this map

Petroglyph National Monument protects a volcanic landscape along the West Mesa where the basalt escarpment is carved with ancient designs. The terrain is dominated by prominent cinder cones including Vulcan and Cinder, collectively known as The Volcanoes. This 2017 survey reveals the expansion of Rio Rancho in the north and the outskirts of Albuquerque in the southeast, contrasting modern residential developments with the raw geology of the high desert. To the west, the Double Eagle II Airport and the isolated Benavidez Ranch mark the transition toward more open ranch land. The area's hydrology is defined by numerous drainage systems such as North Boca Negra Arroyo and Arroyo de las Calabacillas, which cut through the sandy mesas. This map captures the modern interface between New Mexico’s largest urban areas and its preserved geological heritage.