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1979 Map of El Paso Gap

Name: 1979 Topographic Map of El Paso Gap
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1979
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1979

About this map

Hughes Ranch sits at the base of El Paso Ridge, anchoring a landscape where the high desert floor meets the dramatic escarpment of The Rim. This 1970s survey captures the settlement at El Paso Gap, including the El Paso Gap Ch and a nearby grave, reflecting the remote ranching life of the Guadalupe Mountains. The terrain is defined by a complex network of canyons and springs that provided essential water in an arid environment, such as Black River Spring, Hog Spring, and Soldier Spring.

Transitioning from the open flats of Upper Dog Canyon to the protected lands of Lincoln National Forest and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the map illustrates the area's diverse usage. High points like Panorama Peak and Plowman Peak overlook the deep incisions of Big Canyon and North Mc Kittrick Canyon. Evidence of human industry and passage is found at the Guadalupe Mine and along the Guadalupe Camp Trail.