2014 Map of West of Austin

About this map

Reese River and Birchum Slough define the northern valley floor of this Great Basin landscape, illustrating the critical role of water in the high desert of Central Nevada. To the southeast, the terrain rises sharply into the Toiyabe National Forest, where a series of deep drainages including Indian Canyon, Porter Canyon, and First Canyon cut through the mountains. This 2014 survey shows the area as it serves primarily as a transit corridor and gateway to the surrounding wilderness. The presence of the Austin Airport and the small settlement at Canon City marks the limit of valley development before the land gives way to steep slopes and national forest boundaries. A network of rural routes such as Gold Rd and Big Creek Rd provide access to the canyons, tracing the same paths likely used by miners and ranchers for over a century.