2017 Map of Shoestring Ridge

About this map

The John Day River carves a deep path through this high desert landscape, marking the boundary between Gilliam and Sherman Counties. This 2017 survey reveals an intricate drainage system where seasonal flows have etched dozens of canyons into the volcanic plateau, including Richmond Canyon, Meldrum Canyon, and Pemberton Canyon. The terrain is punctuated by distinctive landmarks like Table Rock and Nelson Butte, while ridges such as Shoestring Ridge and North Pole Ridge define the local horizons. A network of rural routes, including Richmond Rd and Armstrong Canyon Rd, provides access to these remote reaches. The presence of water sources like Schilling Spring and Norton Spring suggests the vital points of relief in an otherwise arid environment primarily utilized for rangeland and transit along the river corridor.