Mogollon Plateau

The Mogollon Plateau, also referred to as the Mogollon Mesa, is a pine-covered southern plateau region forming part of the larger Colorado Plateau in the south-western United States. It extends across east-central Arizona into west-central New Mexico and is characterised by elevated terrain, forested landscapes, volcanic features, and a distinctive cultural and archaeological heritage. The plateau derives its name from the Mogollon people, one of the major prehistoric cultural traditions of the American South-West.
The southern boundary of the Mogollon Plateau is sharply defined by the Mogollon Rim, a prominent escarpment that marks a dramatic transition between the high plateau and the lower desert and basin landscapes to the south. The region plays an important role in the physical geography, ecology, and early human history of Arizona and neighbouring areas.

Geographical Setting and Extent

The Mogollon Plateau occupies the southern portion of the Colorado Plateau, a vast physiographic province known for its high elevation, horizontal rock layers, and erosional landforms. The plateau lies primarily within Arizona, with its eastern margins extending into New Mexico. Elevations across the Mogollon Plateau are generally high, averaging around 2,000 metres above sea level, though local variations occur due to volcanic activity and erosion.
The Mogollon Rim forms the plateau’s most recognisable feature, extending for over 300 kilometres across central Arizona. This steep escarpment represents the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau and rises several hundred metres above the lowlands below. To the north and north-east, the plateau gradually transitions into other plateau surfaces and drainage systems that ultimately connect with the Painted Desert region.

Geology and Landscape

Geologically, the Mogollon Plateau is composed of sedimentary rock layers typical of the Colorado Plateau, overlain in many areas by extensive volcanic deposits. Basaltic lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic fields contribute to the plateau’s varied topography. These volcanic features have played a significant role in shaping drainage patterns and forming natural basins that later became lakes and reservoirs.
The surface of the plateau is relatively flat to gently undulating, broken by shallow valleys, washes, and volcanic rises. Numerous creeks and ephemeral streams originate near the Mogollon Rim and trend northwards across the plateau. In the western parts of the region, these watercourses tend to flow north-eastwards, contributing to larger drainage systems associated with the Little Colorado River and the Painted Desert.

Climate and Vegetation

The Mogollon Plateau experiences a cooler and wetter climate than the desert regions immediately south of the Mogollon Rim. Winters are cold, with regular snowfall, while summers are mild to warm, often influenced by seasonal monsoon rains. Annual precipitation supports extensive forest cover, making the plateau one of the most heavily wooded regions in Arizona.
Vegetation is dominated by ponderosa pine forests, interspersed with mixed conifer species at higher elevations. Grasslands, meadows, and riparian vegetation occur in valley bottoms and near lakes and streams. This diverse plant cover supports a wide range of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bear, and numerous bird species.

Lakes and Hydrology

One of the defining features of the Mogollon Plateau is the concentration of natural and artificial lakes, particularly along the southern and south-western margins near the Mogollon Rim. These lakes are closely associated with volcanic basins, lava dams, and modified drainage systems.
In the eastern part of the plateau near Show Low, notable lakes include Little Mormon Lake, Whipple Lake, Long Lake, and Fool Hollow Lake. These water bodies are important for recreation, wildlife habitat, and local water management.
The western plateau region contains Soldier Lake, Tremaine Lake, Soldier Annex Lake, and Stoneman Lake. Further south, just below the Rim, lies Blue Ridge Reservoir on East Clear Creek. Near the central and southern areas adjacent to the Rim are Knoll Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Woods Canyon Lake, Willow Springs Lake, and Black Canyon Lake. To the north of this cluster, on Chevelon Creek within Chevelon Canyon, is Chevelon Canyon Lake.
These lakes collectively contribute to the ecological richness of the plateau and serve as key destinations for fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation.

Cultural and Archaeological Significance

The plateau is historically significant as the namesake of the Mogollon culture, one of the principal prehistoric cultural traditions of the American South-West. The Mogollon people formed part of the broader Cochise–Mogollon cultural group and inhabited the plateau and surrounding regions approximately 5,000 to 2,500 years ago.
The Mogollon culture is recognised for its distinctive pottery, pit houses, and later masonry structures. Archaeological evidence suggests a mixed subsistence economy based on hunting, gathering, and early agriculture. The descendants of the Mogollon people are believed to include later Ancestral Puebloan groups, often referred to as the Anasazi, who occupied large areas of the Colorado Plateau.
Numerous archaeological sites across the Mogollon Plateau provide valuable insights into early settlement patterns, trade networks, and adaptation to highland environments.

Wilderness Areas and Conservation

Several designated wilderness areas are located along the western and south-western margins of the Mogollon Plateau, extending westwards from the plateau edge. These protected areas preserve rugged canyon landscapes, perennial streams, and undisturbed ecosystems.
The Fossil Springs Wilderness lies closest to the Mogollon Rim and is centred on Fossil Creek, a spring-fed stream known for its clear waters and travertine formations. North of this area, and running parallel in a westward direction, are the West Clear Creek Wilderness and the Wet Beaver Wilderness. Both areas protect deep canyon systems with perennial water, riparian habitats, and significant biodiversity.
These wilderness areas are important for conservation, scientific research, and low-impact recreation, contributing to the long-term preservation of the plateau’s natural character.

Human Use and Recreation

In modern times, the Mogollon Plateau supports forestry, grazing, and tourism, while remaining relatively sparsely populated. Its cooler climate and scenic forests make it a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation. Road networks and recreation maps have facilitated access to lakes and forest areas, particularly along the Mogollon Rim.