2019 Map of Black Gap

About this map

Sierra del Carmen and the surrounding high desert terrain dominate this part of Brewster County, where the landscape is defined by deep drainages and isolated water sources. The map reveals a remote network of ranch roads and specialized water catchments, such as Bee Cove Tank and Rockhouse Tank, which are essential for survival in this arid environment. Significant topographic features including Stairway Mtn and Sierra Larga create a dramatic backdrop for the winding Maravillas Canyon. This area, largely part of the Black Gap wildlife management zone, shows very little modern development, preserving the primitive routes like Ranch Rd 2627 and Stillwell Crossing Rd that follow the natural contours of the canyons. Geologic history is written in the sharp descents of Dog Canyon and Big Brushy Canyon, illustrating the erosive power of seasonal water moving toward the Rio Grande drainage system.