1946 Map of Big Ridge

About this map

Nantahala National Forest covers much of this high-elevation landscape in Jackson County, where the steep topography of the Blue Ridge is defined by a series of prominent divides and river systems. The Tuckasegee River flows through the northern reaches, feeding into Cedar Cliff Lake and Bear Creek Lake. This mid-century survey captures the region's hydroelectric and recreational development, featuring numerous mountain reservoirs such as Thorpe Lake, Wolf Creek Lake, and Fairfield Lake. Local social centers are anchored by the Big Ridge Ch and the Rock Bridge Sch, while Merrie Woode Camp sits at the southern edge near the Horsepasture River. The terrain is marked by dozens of named peaks and gaps, including Big Ridge and Hickory Mountain, illustrating the difficult travel routes through Windy Gap and Horse Stamp Gap that shaped early settlement patterns.