2013 Map of Rail Canyon

About this map

The Continental Divide traverses this high-elevation landscape in Catron County, dictating the flow of seasonal runoff through a network of canyons and livestock watering points. The topography is defined by significant drainages such as Fullerton Canyon and Indian House Canyon, which are punctuated by man-made tanks vital for ranching operations in this arid environment. The naming of features like Rail Canyon, Batton Canyon, and Cottonwood Canyon suggests a history of local navigation and land use by early settlers and ranchers who relied on these specific landmarks for orientation.