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1954 Map of Alturas

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Alturas
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1968
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1968

About this map

Alturas stands as the central hub of this northern California landscape, situated at the junction of U.S. 395 and U.S. 299. The map details a region defined by high volcanic plateaus and expansive basins, where the Pit River drainage system meets the high desert character of the Modoc Plateau. To the east, the steep rise of the Warner Mountains separates the central valley from the distinct, enclosed drainage of Surprise Valley, which contains the massive ephemeral beds of Upper Lake, Middle Alkali Lake, and Lower Lake.

Industry and transport are marked by the presence of the Southern Pacific railroad lines serving timber and agricultural interests, including specific landmarks like the McArthur Grain Elevator. The northern border with Oregon is dominated by large-scale water features and conservation areas, notably Goose Lake, Clear Lake Reservoir, and the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge, reflecting the area's significance for migratory waterfowl and early reclamation projects.