Cabezon Peak’s dramatic volcanic formation is one of the most well-known landmarks in northwest New Mexico. With an elevation of 7,785 feet, the Peak is part of the Mount Taylor volcanic field and is the largest of 50 volcanic necks rising from the Rio Puerco Valley. Desert shrublands dominated by cholla cactus give way to piñon and juniper on the flanks of the peak. The symmetrical peak forms cliffs on all sides, and the surrounding landscape gently falls away from the base of the cliffs. Photo by the Bureau of Land Management.