Near Fallon in Churchill County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Fairview Peak Earthquake Faults
Between July and December 1954, six earthquakes and two major aftershocks rocked western Nevada and eastern California. The largest of these, measuring 7.3 on the Richter Scale, was centered seven miles west of here and happened on December 16th. These quakes were felt as far away as Elko, NV and Sacramento, CA. More than 50 miles of faulting were exposed on Fairview Peak and in the Stillwater Range to the northwest. In a matter of moments, the mountains lifted up an average of six feet relative to the surrounding valleys. In some places the mountains rose more than 20 feet! Try to imagine what it must have felt like, and how you might have reacted if you had been camping in this area that day.
If you follow this road south, the exposed fault line is clearly visible in several places. Interpretive signs along the road provide more information. About four miles from here a short side road leads to a parking area next to the fault itself. Four-wheel drive vehicles are not usually required to reach this area, however buses and motor homes should stay on the main road.
Erected by Bureau of Land Management.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Environment • Natural Features. A significant historical month for this entry is December 1954.
Location. 39° 16.863′ N, 118° 7.817′ W. Marker is near Fallon, Nevada, in Churchill County. Marker is on Earthquake Fault Road, 0.3 miles south of U.S. 50, on the right when traveling south. Earthquake Fault Road is located 10 miles east of State Route 839 and 5.5 miles west of State Route 361. A BLM sign on US 50 directs you to the road and earthquake faults. Marker is located on a pullout on the west side of the road. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fallon NV 89406, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 4 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Central Overland Trail - Westgate Station (approx. 4.2 miles away); Fairview (approx. 4˝ miles away); Measuring Earthquakes (approx. 4.9 miles away); Middlegate Station (approx. 5.6 miles away).
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on December 25, 2012, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 1,771 times since then and 101 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 25, 2012, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Wide area view of the marker and its surroundings. • Entering of the interpretive markers along the road. • Can you help?