A cartographic representation displaying the geographical features of the region encompassing Arizona, New Mexico, parts of California, Nevada, Utah, and sometimes western Texas and southwestern Colorado. These visual aids depict physical elements like mountains, deserts, and rivers, alongside political boundaries such as state and county lines. They also often incorporate transportation networks, including roads and railways, and locations of significant cities and towns.
These tools are essential for a multitude of purposes. They facilitate navigation, aid in urban planning, support environmental management, and inform tourism. Historically, depictions of this region have evolved from rudimentary sketches created by early explorers to highly detailed digital renderings utilizing satellite imagery and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This development reflects a growing understanding of the area’s complex geography and resources.