1959 Map of Condor Peak

About this map

Angeles National Forest dominates this mid-century topographic record, defined by the deep canyons and high peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains. The drainage of Big Tujunga Creek serves as the central artery, featuring the Big Tujunga Dam and its reservoir. Several small settlements and historic ranches like Ybarra Ranch, Wildwood, and Woodwardia appear along the creek beds and ridges, suggesting a landscape shaped by early mountain habitation and seasonal recreation. High-elevation landmarks such as Condor Peak, Mount Lukens, and Josephine Peak provide significant navigational points for the area. The map also captures specialized facilities like the Clear Creek School Camp and the Lodestone Mine, alongside numerous campgrounds and picnic areas such as Vogel Flat and Switzer Camp that illustrate the region's long-standing role as a mountain getaway for the nearby Los Angeles basin.