2017 Map of Sunshine

About this map

The Rio Grande carves a deep path through the high desert of Taos County, creating the dramatic Cañon del Rio Grande that dominates the central portion of this landscape. Along its eastern edge, the E Rim Trail follows the canyon's contours, overlooking the rugged transition from the river bottom to the agricultural plateau of Sunshine Valley. This plateau is defined by its irrigation heritage, evidenced by the Number One Ditch and Number Two Ditch which draw water across the arid plains toward the settlements of Sunshine and Cerro. Higher elevations rise to the south and west, where Guadalupe Mtn and Cerro Chiflo break the horizon. Local history is anchored at the Sunshine Valley Cem, situated along the Old Sunshine Hwy, serving as a silent record of the families who settled this high-altitude valley.