Ever been to Felt, Kenton or Wheeless? That whole corner of the US is pretty empty. The area from Clayton through Capulin and on to Raton with the Gamma Grass looks like it was made for a Western movie set. Especially the area around Capulin.
I stopped on a dirt road on the state line with New Mexico West of Kenton back in the 70s in the middle of the night. I could not see a light anywhere except for the stars. You could touch those of course. The few that live out there may know how lucky they are.
Travelling from KS to New Mexico every year or so for family takes me right down 64 thru Boise City. If we miss the turn for Dalhart ,TX you end up going to Felt, OK and that adds beaucoup miles to the trip out in the wasteland past Clayton, NM. trying to turn back south on a reliable paved road. I love driving those roads on clear nights with the moon shinning.