2023 Map of Telephone Canyon

About this map

Gila National Forest encompasses this high-elevation landscape in Catron County, dominated by the massif of Elk Mtn and the branching drainage of North Fork Negrito Creek. The topography is defined by significant divides, including the Rainy Mesa Divide and Elk Mountain Divide, which separate deep canyons like Sheppard Canyon and Beaverdam Canyon. Human activity in this wilderness area is marked by specialized infrastructure, notably the Negrito Airstrip and the curiously named Sheepherders Baseball Park. Ranching and resource management are evident through a network of water features such as Rainy Mesa Tank, West Salt House-Tank, and Logger Spring. Access is provided by Forest Service routes including the Reserve Beaverhead Rd and Bursum Rd, which navigate the complex terrain of Eckleberger Hill and the surrounding volcanic uplands.