2013 Map of Canador Peak

About this map

The Virden settlement serves as the primary western gateway to this New Mexico landscape, where the Gila River snakes through the high desert. Irrigation infrastructure is central to the area's development, evidenced by the intricate paths of the Sunset Canal and New Model Canal that parallel the river's course to support local agriculture. The topography is defined by significant volcanic and erosional landmarks such as Canador Peak and Black Mtn, alongside the deeply carved Gila Lower Box canyon. Numerous family-named canyons, including Riley Canyon and Hughs Canyon, together with natural water sources like Riley Spring and Mexican Springs, indicate a history of ranching and territorial land use. The elevation shifts significantly from the river bottom up to Pearson Mesa, providing a detailed look at the geographic transition between the valley floor and the surrounding high country peaks.