Introduction
The United States Congress designated the High Rock Canyon Wilderness (
map) in 2000 and it now has a total of
46,465 acres.
All of this wilderness is located in
Nevada and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
The High Rock Canyon Wilderness is bordered by
the
East Fork High Rock Canyon Wilderness to the north and the
Little High Rock Canyon Wilderness to the south.
Description
The Wilderness consists of a large area of broad volcanic uplands dissected by the deeply cut drainages of High Rock, Yellow Rock, Grassy, and Mahogany Canyons. Elevations in the Wilderness range from 4,900 to 5,800 feet. The main vegetation type is sagebrush, with willows and small stands of chokecherry occurring in the canyons. The canyons are relatively well watered and support meadow complexes and other riparian vegetation. Wildlife in the area includes California bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, mountain lions, coyotes, and sagegrouse. The canyons also provide outstanding habitat for nesting raptors. The Applegate-Lassen Emigrant Trail is located in High Rock Canyon which forms the eastern boundary for the area.
