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1965 Map of Canyon Creek Mountains

Name: 1965 Topographic Map of Canyon Creek Mountains
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1969
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1969

About this map

The Gila National Forest high country in Catron County centers on the rugged peaks of the Canyon Creek Mountains and the northern reaches of the Gila Wilderness. In the mid-1960s, this area remained largely defined by ranching and timber activities, with the Hulse Ranch and Double Springs Ranch anchoring the few settled points. The landscape is intensely carved by drainage systems like Turkey Spring Canyon and Pine Canyon, leading down toward Canyon Creek.

A network of specialized water infrastructure—essential for both livestock and forestry—is meticulously mapped, including high-elevation catchments like Prospector Tank and University Tank. Evidence of local industry appears at a Sawmill near Loco Mountain, while transportation is limited to rugged routes such as South Elk Road and various Jeep Trails. The density of named tanks and springs, from Little Turkey Spring to Indian Creek Well, underscores the critical importance of water management in this high-altitude environment.