1951 Map of Coso Peak

About this map

Coso and the high desert terrain of the Argus Range define this mid-century survey of Inyo County. The landscape is marked by a complex network of springs and water sources, including China Gardens Spr, Indian Gardens Spr, and Coso Springs, which were essential for both the cattle ranching and mining operations that once dotted the area. Evidence of mineral exploration appears in the form of the Silverspoon Mine and Mariposa Mine, while the southern reaches show remote outposts like Dead End Cabin. Much of the territory falls within the Naval Ordnance Test Station boundary, reflecting the region's mid-century role in defense research. Topography transitions from the broad Lower Centennial Flat to prominent landmarks like Coso Pk and the expansive Wild Horse Mesa, intersected by deeply cut drainages such as Petroglyph Canyon and Renegade Canyon.