2011 Map of Venator Canyon

About this map

Alkali Valley defines this arid landscape of central Oregon, where the high desert terrain is punctuated by seasonal catchments and expansive basins. This 2011 survey illustrates a sparse infrastructure, primarily centered on the Alkali Lake State Airport and the corridor of Big Juniper Rd. The hydrography of the region is characterized by intermittent water bodies such as North Alkali Lake, Woods Lake, and Rehart Lake, which sit within the volcanic and sedimentary depressions of the Great Basin. The topographic relief is most pronounced at Venator Canyon, providing a look at the natural drainage patterns that have shaped this isolated environment. This map is particularly useful for understanding the modern footprint of remote state aviation facilities and the minimal but critical road network connecting these desert basins.