2021 Map of Van Arsdale Reservoir

About this map

The Eel Wild and Scenic River carves a deep path through the southern reaches of the Mendocino National Forest, defining the rugged topography of this borderland between Mendocino and Lake counties. At the heart of the lower drainage lies Van Arsdale Reservoir, a key piece of water infrastructure that serves as a focal point for the surrounding network of forest roads and logging paths. The landscape is punctuated by numerous named flats and glades, such as Deadmans Flat, Hatchet Flat, and Montgomery Glade, which often indicate historically significant landing spots or former camp locations within the timber-rich terrain. High elevations like Sanhedrin Mtn and High Peak offer vantage points over a complex system of ridges and canyons, including Erickson Ridge and North Ridge. This map illustrates the intersection of modern forestry management and older transportation routes like the Lake Co (Old Eel River Road).