There is no such thing as smog or heavy, humid atmosphere in Catron County. The Apache and Gila National Forests border each other in this area, and the two forest combined cover much of Catron County. The Continental Divide zig-zags through this mountain complex, which is characterized by rugged slopes, narrow canyons, rocky formations, clear mountain streams and evergreen forests. Most sportsmen use four speed pick-ups or four wheel drive vehicles. There are many forest service camps with facilities, and many other places where those who enjoy being on their own can find a place under the pines to set up camp.
All ranger stations have maps of their districts, listing camping areas and their facilities.
Aragon is an old spanish settlement with about 20 ranch and farm homes scattered along the highway which continues along the Tularosa Valley. Seven miles from Aragon is the village of Apache Creek, where the creek by that name joins the Tularosa, and it is also the junction of NM 12 and NM 32 which comes down from the north. You may notice a curious thing on fence posts near Cruzville, a piece of wood about an inch thick and six inches square, nailed flat on top of posts. These were for luminaries at Christmas or other special celebrations. Luminaries are an old custom handed down from early Spanish days when little bonfires were used to light the pathway to the church on Christmas Eve.