Loading map...

1956 Map of Bettles

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Bettles
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1984
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

The Arctic Circle crosses through this interior landscape, a region defined by the expansive Kanuti Flats and the meandering path of the Koyukuk River. Significant for aviation and logistics in the bush, the map details the river-based settlement of Bettles and its proximity to Evansville, alongside vital infrastructure like the Prospect Creek Landing Strip. The presence of Oscars Cabin, Black Jack Cabin, and Henshaw Cabin suggests the legacy of remote trapping and prospecting life in the mid-20th century.

Industrial and transport corridors emerge in the eastern half, where the Dalton Highway and Pump Sta #5 mark the modern transformation of the wilderness. Older routes remain visible through various stretches of Winter Road and Winter Trail. Cultural sites like the Alatna Cem near Allakaket provide essential genealogical data, while the Gold Bench Mine reflects the mineral interests that drew early settlers to the Jim River and South Fork Koyukuk River drainage.