The Pahranagat Valley is the central segment of the ancient White River. For our purposes, it extends from Ash Springs in the north, past Alamo, Nevada and continues through the Pahranagat Lakes to a constriction point at Maynard Lake. (Geographically, the Pahranagat Valley includes Maynard, Nesbitt and Frenchie Lakes.)
The Pahranagat Valley Niche encompasses a number of public sites and many other sites that are less well-known. The public sites have some of the most fascinating rock art we have explored. This was probably the center of what is known as the Pahranagat Culture, defined by its distinctive rock art. That culture was fairly local, but extended beyond the Pahranagat Valley itself.
The distinctive Pahranagat Man (P-Man) and Pahranagat Patterned Body Anthropomorph (P-PBA) can be found in the White River North Niche (Mount Irish) and the Pahroc North and South Niches. We may have found a P-Man farther south in the Pahranagat Wash, as you will see when you explore that niche.
Lincoln County, unlike Clark County, with the cooperation of the Bureau of Land Management, encourages public visitation to at least some sites. The County has an excellent brochure giving detailed information, including directions to a number of excellent sites, including the Mount Irish and Curtis Canyon. At least a high clearance vehicle is recommended to both these sites. For this guide to public sites in Lincoln County, get a copy of the Lincoln County, Nevada Rock Art Guide.
Facilities are located at Alamo and Ash Springs, Nevada. Responsible Agencies are US Fish and Wildlife Service (Black Canyon) and Bureau of Land Management (Caliente, NV)
Approximate travel time to base at Alamo, NV: 97 miles; one hour, 29 minutes.
If you detect any vandalism, suspicious activity or desire further information contact the Ely District office of the Bureau of Land Management at HC33 box 33500, Ely, Nevada 8931-9408. (phone 1-800-633-6092, 775-289-1800).
Contact information for Pahranagt Valley, US Fish and Wildlife: Mail: P.O. Box 510, Alamo, NV 89001 , Physical Address: HWY 93 Mile Post 32, Alamo, NV 89001 ( 775-725-3417)