Fryingpan Canyon facts for kids

Fryingpan Canyon is a cool valley located in the Cookes Range mountain area, found in Luna County, New Mexico. Think of it as a long, narrow dip in the land, often carved by water over a very long time.

This canyon starts high up and goes down to a lower point. Its lowest part, called the "mouth," is about 4,715 feet (which is about 1,437 meters) above sea level. This is where it meets another natural feature called Starvation Draw.

The very beginning of the canyon, its "source," is much higher, at about 5,560 feet (1,695 meters). This spot is located within the Cookes Range, specifically on the eastern side of a place called Rattlesnake Ridge. It's like the top of a slide where the canyon begins its journey downwards.

Exploring Fryingpan Canyon

Fryingpan Canyon is part of the interesting landscape of Luna County. Canyons are often formed by rivers or streams that slowly cut through rock and soil, creating deep channels over thousands of years. Even if there isn't a big river there now, water played a huge role in shaping it.

Where is Fryingpan Canyon Located?

Fryingpan Canyon is nestled in the Cookes Range, a mountain range known for its rugged beauty. This area is in the southwestern part of New Mexico, a state in the United States. Knowing its elevation helps us understand how high up it is compared to sea level. The mouth of the canyon is lower, where it joins with Starvation Draw, while its source is higher up on Rattlesnake Ridge.

What is the Cookes Range?

The Cookes Range is a mountain range in Luna County, New Mexico. It's an important natural landmark in the area, and Fryingpan Canyon is just one of the many interesting features you can find there. These mountains are part of the larger landscape that makes New Mexico unique.