1952 Map of Black Mtn

About this map

The Las Vegas Bombing and Gunnery Range dominates this mid-century desert landscape, a high-altitude territory defined by isolation and military restricted access. This area in Nye County showcases the stark transition between the broad, flat expanses of Gold Flat and the elevated volcanic terrain of the Pahute plateau. The map captures critical water sources in an arid environment, specifically Salisbury Well and Gold Flat Well No 2, which were essential for ranching or military surveying before the region's further development. Prominent landmarks such as Black Mtn and Quartz Mtn provide the primary vertical relief above the basin of Dry Lake. The inclusion of Thirsty Canyon underscores the challenging hydrology of the high desert, where seasonal drainage patterns are clearly etched into the topography.