1971 Map of Trinchera Cave

About this map

The Purgatoire River carves a deep path through this portion of Las Animas County, where the high plains break into steep canyons and hidden water sources. This 1971 survey documents a landscape where life centers on these rare water points, featuring uniquely named landmarks such as the Million Dollar Waterhole, Rail O Spring, and Surrett Spring. The presence of the Los Hermanos Penitentes Cem suggests deep cultural roots in the region, while the Trinchera Cave and Trinchera Falls along Trinchera Creek mark significant geological and archaeological points of interest.