2021 Map of Big Hat Mountain

About this map

Hays Canyon Range dominates the high desert terrain of eastern Washoe County on this contemporary survey. The landscape is defined by its arid hydrology, marked by numerous isolated water sources such as Dip Spring, Rock Spring, and Rimrock Spring, which traditionally served as vital stopping points in this portion of the Great Basin. To the west, the basin floor of Surprise Valley contains the edge of Middle Alkali Lake, while the eastern uplands are carved by Black Canyon and protected by the Black Canyon Reservoir. The complex volcanic geology of the region is evident in The Craters, a series of distinct formations situated south of the prominent Big Hat Mtn summit. Navigational markers like Co RD 37 provide modern access through the high-elevation flats and canyons of the Boulder Flat area.