2012 Map of Yankee Blade

About this map

Yankee Blade and the surrounding high desert terrain of Lander County are characterized by a network of seasonal water sources and deep-cut canyons. The landscape is marked by historic nomenclature including San Francisco Canyon and New York Canyon, suggesting the geographic reach of 19th-century prospecting. Ranching and transit are central to the layout, with Burtons Ranch situated in the northwest and Emigrant Pass serving as a traditional route through the ridges. Water management is evident through numerous named springs, such as Cottonwood Spring Number One, Bud Springs, and Upper Midas Spring, which supported the livestock and travelers in this arid environment. To the south, China Ridge and Slaughterhouse Canyon provide topographic contrast, while the presence of Telegraph Peak indicates a history of communication and vantage points over the basin.