1965 Map of Tule Mountains

About this map

The United States Mexico border defines the southern extent of this desert landscape, where the arid reaches of the Lechuguilla Desert meet the rising slopes of the Tule Mountains. This mid-century survey captures a region primarily designated for federal and military use, split between the Cabeza Prieta Game Range and the Luke Air Force Range. Movement through this challenging terrain is traced by the historic Camino Del Diablo and a network of jeep trails and the Military Trail, which connect sparse water sources like Tule Tank. To the southeast, small-scale mineral exploration is noted at the Vanhagas Prospects near the base of the Cabeza Prieta Mountains, reflecting the area's history of isolated prospecting and difficult transit across the Yuma Co. backcountry.