Film transparency of Cathedral Gorge, Panaca, Nevada, circa 1940s-1950s

Cathedral Gorge near Panaca, Nevada. Cathedral Gorge State Park is a state park of Nevada, USA, featuring a gorge eroded through soft bentonite clay. The park covers 1,608 acres (651 ha). It is located in Central/Eastern Nevada along U.S. Route 93, 1 mile (1.6 km) north of the west end of State Route 319, near Panaca. Cathedral Gorge was established as one of the four original Nevada State Parks in 1935. The park sits at an elevation of 4,800 feet (1,500 m) above sea level, and is typically arid with semi-hot summers, and very cold winters. In the summer, temperatures usually range from 95 °F (35 °C) in midday to roughly 55 °F (13 °C) at night. Rainfall is variable, and thunderstorms are prevalent. At one time, Shakespearean plays were performed with the clay formations in the backdrop. The various naturally formed crevices were used as dressing rooms and as a backstage where actors and actresses would prepare, awaiting their cue.