1967 Map of Maple Peak

About this map

The high ridges and deep canyons of the Apache National Forest and Gila National Forest straddle the state line between Arizona and New Mexico in this 1967 survey. The landscape is defined by its verticality, rising to summits like Maple Peak and Charlie Moore Mtn. Human activity is sparse but centered on rugged ranching outposts, notably the Coalson Ranch near Coalson Peak and the Smoothing Iron Camp situated on the broad plateau of Smoothing Iron Mesa. A network of pack trails and jeep trails provides the only access through these high-altitude drainage systems, connecting numerous vital water sources such as Gavilan Spring, Hogwallow Spring, and Rattlesnake Spring. The map documents a classic Southwestern wilderness character, where named features like Morris Day Gap and Skeleton Canyon reflect the pioneer and ranching history of Greenlee and Catron counties.