Near Socorro in Socorro County, New Mexico — The American Mountains (Southwest)

Vásquez de Coronado’s Route

Photographed By Bill Kirchner, July 21, 2011

1. Vásquez de Coronado’s Route Marker

Inscription. In 1541 an expedition from the army of Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, New Mexico’s first explorer, marched south 80 leagues to investigate the pueblos along the lower Río Grande. The group reached that part of the infamous Jornada del Muerto, now covered by Elephant Butte Lake, where the river disappeared underground.

Erected by New Mexico Historic Preservation Division.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Exploration. In addition, it is included in the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1541.

Location. 33° 37.264′ N, 107° 8.271′ W. Marker is near Socorro, New Mexico, in Socorro County. Marker is on Interstate 25 at milepost 114, on the right when traveling north. Marker is in the northbound rest area. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Socorro NM 87801, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Fort Craig (here, next to this marker); Women of the Camino Real (within shouting distance of this marker); Paraje De Fra Cristobal (within shouting distance of this marker); Espejo's Expedition (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Paraje de Fra Cristobal (about 600 feet

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

away); Fort Craig Rest Area (about 600 feet away); a different marker also named Fort Craig (approx. 7.2 miles away); In Memory of Texas Mounted Volunteers (approx. 10.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Socorro.

Rear of Vásquez de Coronado’s Route Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Bill Kirchner, July 21, 2011

2. Rear of Vásquez de Coronado’s Route Marker

Vásquez de Coronado’s Route Marker is on the right image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Bill Kirchner, July 21, 2011

3. Vásquez de Coronado’s Route Marker is on the right

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on July 27, 2011, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. This page has been viewed 930 times since then and 29 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 27, 2011, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.