2023 Map of Capitol Peak

About this map

San Andres Mountains dominate this high-desert landscape, where the prominent summit of Capitol Peak serves as a primary landmark. Much of the terrain falls within the restricted boundaries of the White Sands Missile Range, reflecting the area's mid-century transition from ranching to military aerospace testing. This transition is marked by the presence of livestock-era infrastructure like CCC Tank and Capitol Peak Tank, which once supported cattle grazing in an arid environment now largely managed for government use. The geography is further defined by drainage systems such as Johnson Park Canyon and Thurgood Canyon, while the border between Socorro Co and Sierra Co cuts across the northern reaches near Johnson Park. Primitive routes including WSMR P Route 7 and WSMR S Route 325 provide the only access through the rugged passes of Hays Gap.