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2021 Map of The Needle Rocks

Name: 2021 Topographic Map of The Needle Rocks
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2021
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2021

About this map

Pyramid Lake dominates the eastern edge of this landscape, its shoreline defined by unique geothermal and geological markers. The prominent shoreline formation known as The Needle Rocks sits adjacent to a Steam Geyser and multiple Hot Springs, signaling the active hydrothermal systems present in this corner of Washoe County. The western terrain is characterized by the Terraced Hills, where steep contouring rises from the lake basin toward high desert ridges.

Evidence of human presence is sparse in this desert environment, centered primarily on the settlement of Zenobia located near the southwestern boundary. The map captures the interface between the lake's water and the land at points like Wizards Cove, Wizards Beach, and the aptly named Enchanted Beach. These features, along with Shallow Spring, illustrate the critical importance of water sources in an area otherwise defined by high ridges and Terrace Point.