1955 Map of De Long Mountains C-3

About this map

The Kukpowruk River carves a dominant path through this portion of the northern De Long Mountains, illustrating the complex drainage patterns of the Alaska North Slope. In the mid-1950s, when these aerial surveys were first conducted, the area remained a roadless wilderness characterized by high-elevation ridges and distinct river valleys. The Pitmegea River flows across the northern reaches, while the south is defined by the headwaters of the Sooner River and Ipnewik River. The absence of any permanent settlements or structures on the map highlights the area's isolation and its primary role as a seasonal hunting ground and a crucial migratory corridor for Arctic wildlife. Geographers and historians can trace the intricate braiding of Ikok Creek and other tributaries as they navigate the varied topography of this undeveloped landscape.