1952 Map of Timber Mountain

About this map

Nellis Air Force Base dominates the landscape of this mid-century survey, a region defined by high desert topography and massive geologic formations in southern Nevada. The central feature, Timber Mountain, rises sharply with distinct summits at North Timber Peak and South Timber Peak, surrounded by a complex system of drainage channels including Fortymile Canyon and West Cat Canyon. To the north, the broad expanse of Pahute Mesa gives way to a series of prominent ridges such as Split Ridge and Falcon Ridge, which flank the deep incision of Silent Canyon. The map reveals a land utilized for military operations during the early Cold War era, evidenced by the restricted base boundaries and landmarks like Stockade Wash and Big Burn Valley. This document provides an essential topographic record of the area's natural drainage patterns and landforms before subsequent development or modifications to the test range landscape.