1970 Map of Bettles D-2

About this map

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline cuts through this northern landscape during its mid-1970s development, illustrating the intersection of industrial expansion and the Alaskan interior. This era shows a transition from traditional routes like the Winter Trail and Winter Road to major infrastructure projects. Along the South Fork Koyukuk River, evidence of the region’s mineral history is visible at the Gold Bench Placer Mine and Ironsides Bar Mine. The importance of aviation in this remote sector is highlighted by Prospect Airport and a separate Landing Strip near the John River. Central to the activity in the southern half of the sheet is the Prospect Creek Camp, which supported the construction crews and logistical operations near the Jim River. The map provides a detailed view of the terrain before the pipeline corridor became a permanent fixture of the geography.