1958 Map of Comins Lake

About this map

Steptoe Valley serves as a central corridor for industry and water management in this high-desert landscape near the city limits of Ely. The Nevada Northern RR cuts across the basin, providing a vital link for the region's mineral interests. Mining history is deeply etched into the eastern slopes of the Humboldt National Forest, where a cluster of historic workings including the Joe Shaft, John Shaft, and Vietti Shaft overlook the valley floor. Water resources are concentrated around Comins Lake and numerous alpine sources like Shallenberger Spring and Fish Pond Springs. The presence of the Monitor Mill (Site) and Argus Mill (Site) suggests an era of processing ore from the nearby canyons. In the valley, the CCC Ranch and Comins Meadow indicate the enduring agricultural use of this well-watered section of the Great Basin.