2023 Map of Capitan Pass

About this map

Lincoln National Forest dominates this section of the New Mexico landscape, where the southern slopes of the Capitan Mountains meet a series of canyon-riven valleys. The map documents a sophisticated network of water management and cattle-ranching infrastructure, with numerous catchments like Northwest Tank and Salado Tank scattered throughout the foothills. The high ground is defined by prominent landmarks such as West Mountain and Padilla Point, while the hydrological importance of the region is evident in the many named springs, including Hammett Spring and Peppin Spring. At the lower elevations, the Rio Bonito flows eastward, passing near the Griego Cem and the G Bar F Ranch Airport. This area is also crisscrossed by backcountry routes like the South Base Trl and Thorium Canyon Trl, reflecting the historical and modern utility of the terrain for grazing and recreation.