Yucca Mountain, Mountain peak in southern Nevada, United States.
Yucca Mountain is a desert summit in southern Nevada that rises approximately 4,950 feet above the surrounding landscape. The peak displays volcanic tuff rock formations and scattered low vegetation, with multiple geological fault lines running through the area.
Geological studies began in 1978 when scientists assessed the mountain's potential as a national nuclear waste storage site. This evaluation led to extensive exploration and research into the mountain's deep geological structure.
The Western Shoshone people view this land as part of their ancestral home and hold deep spiritual ties to the place. For them, the mountain remains an important part of their identity and relationship with the region.
The mountain sits approximately 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas in an area with limited public access. Special permits are required to visit the site due to its proximity to restricted military zones.
A 5-mile exploratory tunnel was carved into the mountain to test its suitability for waste storage purposes. This underground passage remains visible evidence of the extensive scientific investigation conducted at the site.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
