2023 Map of Hay Lake

About this map

High desert water management and rugged landforms characterize this section of Harney County, where the storage of seasonal runoff is essential to the landscape. Numerous catchments such as Surprise Lake Reservoir, Indian Brave Reservoir, and Sheep Mountain Reservoir are scattered across the terrain, highlighting the region's reliance on engineered water sources. The topography is defined by prominent elevations like Sheep Mtn and the extended Egli Ridge, which drop into drainage features including Egli Canyon and Spring Canyon. Natural water features, though sparse, are noted through named points like Hay Lake and Wheatgrass Lake, alongside smaller sources like Harry Arnold Spring and Poteet Spring. Navigability through this remote area is provided by the Gap Ranch-Waggontire Rd and Big Stick Rd, which trace the path between ridges and ephemeral flows like Big Stick Creek.