In 1598, when 50-year-old Juan de Oñate took on the task of colonizing New Spain’s northern frontier for the Spanish Crown, he was given a peculiar order to survey New Mexico’s harbors and coastlines. As soon as he set foot on New Mexican soil, he realized the only waterway in sight was the Rio Grande. It was plentiful but not exactly oceanic. Still he followed the river’s northerly course to extend El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro parallel to the riverbank, assuring abundant water for his fellow travelers and their livestock.
In 1598, when 50-year-old Juan de Oñate took on the task of colonizing New Spain’s northern frontier for the Spanish Crown, he was given a peculiar order to survey New Mexico’s harbors and coastlines. As soon as he set foot on New Mexican soil, he realized the only waterway in sight was the Rio Grande. It was plentiful but not exactly oceanic. Still he followed the river’s northerly course to extend El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro parallel to the riverbank, assuring abundant water for his fellow travelers and their livestock.
This part of the trail is a large basalt outcrop in the well-known Jornada del Muerto, a shortcut that required traveling more than 144 inhospitable kilometers without water, firewood, and with little food for the livestock; additionally, travelers had to avoid getting lost in the tangled mesquite.
Point of Rocks is located along the western edge of Perrillo Hills, a day’s journey from the San Diego paraje, the last water access point. Travelers commonly crossed the desert at night before reaching this point. A U-shaped stacked rock wall at its base suggests that it was a resting place, and the base of the ridge worked well for setting up camp.
Even now, its rocky cliff remains a prominent landmark and a strategic observation post, offering panoramic views in all directions. An 805-meter interpretive trail has been installed, guiding visitors from the county road to the summit.
